Philadelphia Walgreens loss prevention officer injured in knife attack

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A Walgreens loss prevention officer was slashed in the face during an altercation with two suspects in Center City Philadelphia.

It happened at the store on the unit block of South Broad Street around 9 a.m. Friday.

Police said the 32-year-old victim got into a verbal dispute with a man she suspected of shoplifting.

The suspect left the store but later returned with a woman. They then began arguing with the loss prevention officer, police said.

The two suspects and the officer exited the store.

Police said the male and female suspect then attempted to fight the officer.

They said the woman handed the male suspect a knife. He then sliced the female victim's face, back, and hands.

Both suspects fled west on Chestnut Street and then North on Broad Street.

The male suspect was soon stopped by SEPTA police and positively identified before being taken into custody.

The female suspect, described to be her in 30s, fled the location.

The victim was transported to Jefferson University Hospital by medics for lacerations to the left side of her back, right side of her face and both hands. She is listed in stable condition.

People in the area were shocked to hear about the crime.

"That is scary. Usually, this is what I consider a very peaceful and calm part of Philly, and especially Center City. So, whoever did this, I don't know why you are disturbing the peace like this," said Thomas Hall, of West Philadelphia.

But others say they are not surprised to hear about violence in the city.

"It's very scary and I feel like a lot more of this kind of things are happening in Philadelphia and I am not pleased about it," said Marylyn Brown, of Center City.

Central Detectives are continuing to investigate. Anyone with information about the crime is asked to call Philadelphia Police at 215-686-TIPS.