Miami Purse Snatcher Pistol-Whips Woman

MIAMI, FL — An armed purse snatcher can be seen struggling with a woman and then pistol-whipping her in an attempt to steal her purse, according to surveillance video released by the Miami Police Department on Thursday. Police are asking anyone who recognizes the attacker to come forward. The incident occurred shortly before 5 a.m. on Aug. 30 in the 700 block of SW 1 Street.

"The suspect was seen in the area prior to the arrival of the victim," explained Officer Michael Vega of the Miami Police Department in releasing the video.

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"Once the victim arrived to wait for her ride to work, the suspect approached her at gunpoint and demanded that the victim give him her purse," Vega said. "The victim asked what was going on (in Spanish) and without warning, the suspect tugged at the victim’s purse while hitting her on the head several times with the gun."

Vega said that the attacker didn't get the woman's purse.

"The victim, in fear for her life, left the scene but immediately called police," Vega added.

The attacker is described as a black male in his early 20s, approximately 5 feet 10 inches to 6 feet tall, around 150 pounds and last seen wearing a white hat, short sleeve shirt and black pants. He was carrying a book bag.

To report a tip, call the Miami Police Department’s Robbery Unit at 305-603-6370. Alternatively, call that Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471- TIPS (4877), visit www.crimestoppersmiami.com and select “Give a Tip” or text "CSMD" followed by the tip information to 274637.

Video and image courtesy Miami Police Department