Suspect Wanted in Woman's Purse Theft at Walmart

A suspect who allegedly stole a woman's purse from a shopping cart outside the Murrieta Walmart is being sought by police.

The alleged petty theft occurred at about 10:30 a.m. Jan. 23, according to a flier posted on the Murrieta Police Department website.

The victim was driving home and realized she left her purse in a shopping cart in the , according to Murrieta police Sgt. Phil Gomez.

Upon reviewing surveillance video, store loss prevention observed a female suspect allegedly removing the victim’s purse from the shopping cart and then entering the store, according to the flier.

It is then alleged that she entered the women’s restroom for approximately two minutes. When she exits the restroom, it was observed that the victim’s purse was not seen but that the suspect’s purse allegedly appeared larger.

The suspect was described as a Hispanic female, about 5 feet 5 inches tall and about 200 pounds, with brown hair and wearing a black hoodie and jeans.

Her vehicle was described as a black two-door with a rear spoiler.

Anyone with information regarding the identity of the suspect or similar MOs was asked to contact Murrieta Police Investigations Sgt. Phil Gomez at 951-461‐6356.