Violence has struck again at a popular Kansas City shopping center.
Kansas City police are investigating after a woman in her 70s was assaulted and robbed outside the Trader Joe’s at Ward Parkway Center on Wednesday.
The attack took place in the store’s parking lot, where the suspect used force to assault the woman, stole her purse, and fled the scene.
This crime happened less than a week after another incident outside the same store, when a 20-year-old college student fought off two suspects in an attempted carjacking.
In both cases, the victims ran into Trader Joe’s to seek help.
Police are reviewing surveillance footage from both events. Ward Parkway Shopping Center Senior Manager Fred Spille said they are working with police to provide video and images, noting that recent security upgrades have been made.
“I’m telling you right now that if you’re coming here to steal, cause trouble or anything like that, this is not the place for you. Our goal is to have you arrested and prosecuted every time,” Spille said.
Regarding Wednesday’s incident, Spille noted that police responded quickly.
“Even one is not tolerable. In this case, within 10 minutes, the police had the license plate number, video showing the car, and knew the suspects weren’t even from this county. They were from somewhere in East Missouri.”
Some shoppers say the incidents are making them more cautious.
“I always lock it as soon as I get into my car, and just immediately start it,” Macy Walker said. “That way, if I need to get away quickly, I can.”
Ward Parkway has increased parking lot patrols and scheduled them to align with store hours. Police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers and to call 911 if they see suspicious activity in the Ward Parkway parking lot.
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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