Thursday, Brookhaven Police Department Chief Kenneth Collins warned shoppers via Facebook to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings.

“Today, around noon, an elderly female was pushed down in the Walmart parking lot, and had her purse taken,” Collins said in a post on the BPD Facebook page.

“We are asking that anyone who may have seen anything suspicious that may help solve this crime to please come forward.”

Collins said this is the time of year when crimes like this start to pick up. People need to pay attention to their surroundings when leaving stores, and remember that large purses make for an easy target to criminals.

Shoppers should leave valuables in the trunk or out of plain view inside cars; park in well-lit areas when shopping after dark; and avoid distractions such as cellphones.
“We are our brother’s keeper. This is Brookhaven,” Collins said. “Do not allow criminals to ruin our beautiful city by not saying anything. If you see something, please report it.”
The chief closed the post with by saying his heart goes out to the victim and her family.

“We will do our best to put this to a positive end,” he said.