Suspect sought for choking and robbing man in North Philadephia

NORTH PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Police are searching for the suspect who allegedly robbed and choked a 32-year-old man in North Philadelphia.

The incident happened on January 26 around 6:15 p.m. in the area of West Erie Avenue.

Police say the suspect approached the victim from behind while he was looking at his cell phone.

The suspect then placed the victim in a choke-hold, police say. The victim then dropped his cell phone, and the suspect picked up the phone and began to walk away.

However, the victim went after the suspect and a fight broke out.

During the fight, the suspect was able to flee.

The victim suffered scratches on his face and a bruised left eye.

The suspect is described a black male, 6'0" tall, 160 pounds, medium build with a beard and mustache. He was wearing a green/teal hooded sweat jacket with the hood up, and matching sweatpants.

If you have any information about the crime or the suspect, please contact, East Detective Division at 215-686-3243/3244 .