In a bold act of crime on The Quay, Bideford, an elderly woman in her...

Published: 3:55 pm December 21, 2023
Updated: 11:35 am October 8, 2025
Attempted Handbag Theft from Elderly Woman in Bideford Thwarted by Brave Samaritan

In a bold act of crime on The Quay, Bideford, an elderly woman in her 80s became the target of a handbag snatch while waiting for a bus. The incident, which occurred around 4 PM on Tuesday, 12 December, was averted thanks to the intervention of a quick-thinking member of the public.

The suspect, a female, was seen grabbing the pensioner’s bag. However, her attempt was foiled when an unknown person stepped in and recovered the bag. Following this intervention, the suspect and a male accomplice fled the scene without the stolen item.

Devon and Cornwall Police are actively investigating this isolated incident. They have expressed interest in identifying the good Samaritan who bravely intervened to assist the elderly victim. Detectives are urging any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation. People can contact the police via their website or by calling 101, quoting reference 50230323876.

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