Armed Man Targeting Center City Parking Lot Attendants
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Police need the public's help catching an armed suspect on a robbery spree in Center City.
"He's doing his homework. He's looking inside the parking lot and when he feels the opportunities right, he makes his move," Lt. Patrick Doherty with the Philadelphia Police Department said.
Police say the man was caught on surveillance video in two of the robberies. Police believe the same man may be responsible for five more robberies since November 13th. Eyewitness News has learned the suspect is targeting cashiers at Center City parking lots:
- 2126 Walnut Street location was hit twice on November 13th and 20th.
- 1607 Sansom Street on November 16th.
- 225 N. 13th Street on November 20th.
- 2101 Chestnut Street on November 21st.
- 1305 Sansom Street on November 29th.
- 212 N. 12th Street on December 8th.
"He was pretending he wanted some information."
One of the victims spoke to Eyewitness News, but wished to remain anonymous.
"Give me the money! I said "What?" He said 'give me the money' and finally he showed me the gun, I said, ok just take the money."
According to police, the suspect usually works alone, robs the attendant and runs away. But on one occasion, the suspect had an accomplice and police say he forced the attendant into a port-a-potty, robbed him then grabbed a pair of keys out of the booth and drove away in a silver BMW.
"The BMW is recovered a day later, stripped. We have it now in our possession," Lt. Doherty said.
Police say the car is now being dusted for fingerprints.
As for the investigation, police believe the suspect is someone familiar with parking lots, possibly a former employee. And while he's only targeted cashiers so far, police worry he could grow more desperate.
Lt. Doherty added, "It's always a concern with anyone armed with a gun committing robberies in Center City, he's going to take the best available target."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Central Detectives directly by calling 215-686-3093.
Reported By: Elizabeth Hur, CBS 3
