Long Island Man, 83, Chases Robber Who Grabbed Wife's Purse

An 83-year-old man chased after a robber who grabbed his wife's purse as the couple was walking from their car to a restaurant on Long Island Wednesday evening.

Nassau County police say they are still looking for the suspect in the Rockville Centre robbery.

Detectives say the robber popped out from between two cars, approached the couple and grabbed the 81-year-old wife's purse, pushing her to the ground. The husband began to chase after the robber but tripped and fell.

The suspect fled with the purse, which had credit cards, cash and keys. 

Both the victims were treated for cuts and scrapes.

Susan Pronko, an employee at a stationery store nearby, said she heard the woman's screams and saw the couple with bloodied faces.

"I don't know how anyone who did this can sleep at night," she said.

Detectives are asking anyone with information about the crime to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.

--Greg Cergol contributed to this story

Contact Us