Officials: Police Officer Pepper-Sprayed During Robbery

The Delaware State Police are investigating two shoplifting incidents that took place along the Concord Pike corridor on Wednesday evening in which the suspect dispersed pepper spray, according to Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Michael Austin.

Austin said the first incident occurred at approximately 5:49 p.m., Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at the Macy’s department store located in the Concord Mall. The pictured female suspect removed merchandise from the display and attempted to exit the store without paying. When confronted by a store employee the suspect sprayed them with pepper spray, before fleeing, said Austin.

Approximately 25 minutes later this same suspect committed a shoplifting at the 5 Below store, located at 3632 Concord Pike. During this incident, the suspect was again confronted by a store employee at which time she again produced a pepper spray canister, according to Austin. An off-duty police officer who witnessed the incident while shopping, intervened due to a safety concern for the employee at which time he was sprayed by the suspect.

The suspect, who was described as a black female, 30-40 years of age, 5’6”-5’9” tall, was observed fleeing both scenes in an older model, white sedan with Texas tags. The vehicle was reported to have noticeable right rear damage.

Anyone with information regarding the suspect’s identity or whereabouts are asked to contact Cpl. A. Ali at Troop 1 by calling 302-761-6677.