Man Stole Backpack From Car, Then Shoplifted At ShopRite: Police

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Toms River police are seeking the public's help in identifying a man they say stole a student's backpack from a car and then shoplifted items from ShopRite.

The incident happened about 10 a.m. on Thursday, said Ralph Stocco, spokesman for the Toms River Police Department.

The man first entered an unoccupied car in the parking lot of the ShopRite at 2 Route 37 West, stealing a student's backpack that contained books and the student's drumsticks, Stocco said.

Then the man went into ShopRite, put 13 items into his shopping cart and left the store without paying for them, Stocco said. Outside, the man got into a waiting blue GMC Envoy van; information on the driver of the van was not available, he said.

The van is registered to a Manchester Township address, but so far police have not been able to find the suspect or the person who was driving the van, he said.

The photos are from video surveillance, Stocco said. Officer Rebecca Sayegh took the initial investigation report; Detective Mark Bajada is investigating. If you have any information or believe you know the man's identity, police ask that you call 732-349-0150 ext. 1241 or mbajada@trpolice.org. All information will be kept confidential.

Photos provided by Toms River Police Department from video surveillance