Suspect Wanted for Macing Employees During Philly Store Robbery

Police are searching for a woman who sprayed mace at workers while stealing items from a Frankford neighborhood store.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:23pm

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Philadelphia police are seeking the public's help in identifying a woman who allegedly sprayed mace at two employees while robbing a store in the city's Frankford neighborhood last week. The incident occurred around 3:20 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4, at a business located at 4640 Frankford Ave. near the intersection with Overington Street. The suspect entered the store, concealed items, and then used mace on the workers when they confronted her before fleeing with the stolen goods.

Why it matters

Robberies involving the use of weapons or other dangerous substances like mace can pose a serious threat to public safety, especially when they occur in busy commercial areas. The Frankford neighborhood has seen an uptick in property crimes in recent years, and this incident highlights the need for increased security measures and community cooperation to deter such criminal activity.

The details

According to police, the suspect entered the store and began concealing items. When employees confronted her, she pulled out a can of mace and sprayed two of them before fleeing the scene with the stolen merchandise. Surveillance footage of the incident has been released, and authorities are urging the public to contact them immediately if they recognize the woman, but not to approach her directly.

  • The incident occurred around 3:20 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4, 2026.

The players

Philadelphia Police

The law enforcement agency investigating the robbery and searching for the suspect.

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What they’re saying

“If you see the suspect, contact 911 immediately and don't approach her.”

— Philadelphia Police

What’s next

Police are asking anyone with information about the suspect or the incident to contact the Northeast Detective Division at 215-686-3153 ext. 3154 or submit a confidential tip through the department's website.

The takeaway

This robbery highlights the ongoing challenges businesses and communities face in addressing property crimes and ensuring the safety of employees and customers. Increased vigilance, security measures, and community cooperation will be crucial in deterring such incidents and protecting local neighborhoods.