Red Deer RCMP are looking for public assistance to identify the man who stole an 82 year old woman’s car Sunday afternoon as she attempted to unlock it.

RCMP received a report at 11:30 am on January 1 that a man had pushed an 82 year old woman to the ground after she exited the back door of Gaetz Memorial Church downtown and attempted to enter her car, which was parked in the alley; the suspect then stole the car and the victim’s purse.

RCMP searched the scene and made extensive patrols in the area, but did not locate the suspect; police located the car, a grey Pontiac, abandoned nearby a short time later. The victim was not injured in this incident.

The suspect is described as:

·         Caucasian

·         Tall and stocky

·         Short brown hair with a longer strip on top

·         Wearing a white coat with the letters “L.A.” in blue on the back. The right sleeve was white and the left sleeve was blue.

Please see attached surveillance images.

RCMP continue to investigate. If you recognize this suspect or have information about this incident, please contact the Red Deer RCMP at 403-343-5575. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or report it online at www.tipsubmit.com.