Two Purses Grabbed In Fremont: Police

FREMONT, CA — Two women have been the victims of a purse snatching or attempted snatching in Fremont Monday evening and Tuesday. One woman was dragged on the ground and slightly injured. No arrests have been made.

Fremont Police say the first crime happened around 6:40 p.m. Monday as a woman was loading groceries into the trunk of her vehicle at the Ranch Market parking lot in Warm Springs. The woman hung onto her purse but was dragged on the ground by the man who grabbed it. Police say she had "minor visible injuries."

The suspect sped off in a light colored van or SUV that was possibly driven by a woman. The vehicle was last seen going northbound on Fremont Boulevard. The description of the man who grabbed the purse is vague: a Black man with a medium build, around 6' to 6'2, and possibly wearing a beanie.

In the second case a woman was robbed of her purse while in a parking lot in the area of Mowry Avenue and Paseo Padre Parkway, across the street from Walgreens. It happened shortly before noon on Tuesday. No description of the suspect is available, but the getaway car is described as a blue sedan. Fremont Police spotted it on northbound I-880 and gave chase, but the car accelerated to a dangerous speed and the chase was ended.

While Fremont Police search for suspects in the two cases, they offer these tips to avoid being a victim:

• Trust your instincts. If you sense trouble, get away as soon as possible.
• Show confidence. Walk at a steady pace, keep your head up and avoid carrying lots of items in your hands.
• Be observant. Remain alert and observe the people around you. Things to watch for include suspicious persons or vehicles.
• Walk in well-lit areas. If possible, do not walk alone.
• Be aware of your surroundings. If you think you are being followed, go back into the place of business or move into a crowded area.
• Do not carry large amounts of money in your wallet or purse.
• Don't leave your purse unattended in a shopping cart.
• Carry your cell phone and keys separately in your hand or pocket.

If you are a victim of a crime or witness one, notice as much detail about the suspects and their vehicle as possible. Try to remember their age, race, height, facial hair, speech, and clothing. Call 911 as soon as possible. If you are a witness, police ask you to remain with the victim until officers arrive.