Police: Woman Stabbed, Robbed In Department Store Parking Lot

Newark– The Delaware State Police have arrested 33-year-old Jake Gillespie of Claymont, DE, for Robbery and related charges, according to Public Information Officer, Corporal/1 Jason Hatchell.

Hatchell said the incident occurred on February 23, 2021, at approximately 12:55 p.m., when a 46-year-old female victim from Wilmington, was walking through the parking lot in front of the Ross department store located at 1317 Churchmans Road. The victim was talking on her cell phone walking to her vehicle when she was approached by Gillespie.

Gillespie began to argue with the woman and blocked the victim from entering her vehicle. During the altercation, Gillespie stabbed her in the left leg with a broken glass bottle, according to police. Gillespie then forcibly stole the victim’s cell phone as she was attempting to call the police and fled the parking lot on foot, added Hatchell.

A witness at the scene chased Gillespie down and held him to the ground until police responded. Upon trooper’s arrival, police took Gillespie into custody without incident.

Gillespie was transported to Troop 6 where he was charged with the following crimes:

Robbery 1st Degree (Felony)
Possession of a Deadly Weapon During the Commission of a Felony (Felony)
Assault 2nd Degree (Felony)
Malicious Interference Emergency Communications
Gillespie was arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court #2 and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $130,200 cash bond.

The victim was treated and released for a stab wound to the leg at an area hospital.

About Staff Writer

First State Update's Delaware editorial team covers New Castle County, Kent County and Sussex County breaking news, political news, and general news stories. We bring the reader the latest news from the Wilmington, Newark, Dover, Rehoboth Beach and all point in between. If you have news to share, email us at [email protected].

View all posts by Staff Writer →