Bear Spray Used In $3,000 Robbery At KOP Mall: Police

KING OF PRUSSIA, PA — Authorities are asking for the public's help in identifying a suspect who they said used bear spray during a $3,000 robbery from the King of Prussia Mall.

The incident occurred on Thursday, August 14 at around 4 p.m. at the Diesel store inside the mall.

The suspect, a young woman, entered the store and immediately grabbed several purses before leaving, police said.

A store employee tried to stop her, but she hit the employee in the head and then sprayed with bear spray, police said.

She fled towards the Neiman Marcus exit of the mall, and the employee caught up to her again right at the door. Before he could grab her he was sprayed again, according to authorities.

The woman then entered a waiting silver car that sped away, police said.

Investigators said they located the vehicle later that night during a similar robbery attempt in nearby Collegeville. The vehicle had been robbed during an incident in Horsham a few days before Aug. 14, and two teen boys were taken into custody at that time.

Police estimate the suspect to be between 16 and 20 years old.

Video of the woman fleeing is available below:

The store employee was treated at the scene for exposure to the spray but did not require further medical attention, police said.

If you have any information, contact Detective Sean Bryson at sbryson@umtownship.org or call 610-265-3232.