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Passersby chase down purse thief in Parksville

No police report filed, Oceanside RCMP hope to make contact with victim
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Oceanside RCMP are looking for the victim of an alleged purse-snatching incident that took place in downtown Parksville Wednesday.

Shortly after 12:30 p.m. on Dec. 20, Oceanside RCMP responded to a report of a robbery near the Hirst Avenue and McMillan Street intersection.

Witnesses reported that a woman had her purse stolen by an unknown male, according to a press release from Oceanside RCMP.

“Several witnesses to the incident chased the suspect and, after apprehending him, retrieved the purse and returned it to the victim,” RCMP Sgt. Stephen Rose said in the release. “Prior to the arrival of police, however, the suspect fled from the Good Samaritans.”

The suspect was located and arrested a few hours later by police and remains in custody.

The victim did not report the incident to the RCMP, but officers would like to speak with her as soon as possible. The victim can contact the Oceanside RCMP at 250-248-6111.