Suspects sought for late-night robbery spree in South Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia police are asking for the public's help identifying two men wanted in connection with an armed robbery spree that occurred late last month.

Surveillance video shows the suspects inside a store after the reported robberies, allegedly making a purchase with stolen money.

The spree began the night of July 30 in South Philadelphia.

In each case, the suspects approached their victims, brandished a gun, and stole personal belongings - primarily cash.

Police say a 68-year-old man was robbed at gunpoint around 10 p.m. while walking on the 1500 block of Catherine Street.

A short time later, a 31-year-old man riding a bicycle was targeted on the 1100 block of Ellsworth Street around 11 p.m.

Then, just after midnight, a third victim -- a 26-year-old man -- was robbed on the 1100 block of South Mole Street.

In total, the suspects made off with $120 in cash and a cell phone, said police.

Action News spoke with one of the victims, who asked to remain anonymous. He said the attacker approached from behind and covered his mouth.

"He had a pretty big gun. So I gave him my wallet. Didn't have any cash in it. He gave it back to me, felt my other pocket, then left. Kind of terrifying," the victim said.

What concerns him most is the safety of others in the neighborhood.

"A lot of young people here," he said. "And I would hope to see none of them get caught up in that. I feel everyone deserves to feel safe where they live."

Residents nearby say they hope the suspects are caught soon.

"It's just sad. It's just the way things are around here sometimes, and I don't know what you can do about it," said Tony Fardella of South Philadelphia.

No injuries were reported in any of the incidents.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 215-686-TIPS.