Caution urged after elderly robberies

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Elderly people living in Springfield might be the target of a robber.

According to Springfield Police Sergeant John Delaney, the first incident happened October 22 around 4:45 P.M. in East Springfield. The suspect allegedly followed an 82-year old woman home from an ATM near the Springfield Plaza on Liberty Street and stole her purse, which contained $100.

The second robbery took place just four hours later. An 80-year old woman was followed home from Holy Name Church to her house in Forest Park where her purse was stolen.

Wednesday night, a 90-year old man was followed home from the library near Island Pond Road to his house in Forest Park. The suspect stole his wallet with $80 inside, and punched the man in the face.

“When people are leaving a business and they are by themselves, look around the area and if they see someone watching them and you drive out of the lot and the person tails you, don't go home; call 911,” Sgt. Delaney said.

The suspect in each robbery has been described as a black man between 25 and 30 years old, clean shaven, with a medium to heavy build. He might be driving a dark or black sedan.

At this time, it is not completely clear whether or not all three crimes were committed by the same person.

If you have any information, you are asked to call the Springfield Police Department at 787-6313.