Purse Swiper Targetting Roller Coaster Riders At Luna Park, Say Cops

Luna Park goers, beware!

Cops are looking for a man wanted for swiping the purses of at least six thrill seekers as they rode roller coasters at the amusement park this month.

The first incident occurred on Saturday, May 2, at approximately 6pm, when the suspect removed a 23-year-old female victim’s purse from a storage area while she was on a ride, police said. Police say the man struck twice on May 10 and two more times on May 17, always in the late afternoon. Most recently, the suspect stole a 39-year-old woman’s purse on Saturday, May 23, at 5pm, according to the NYPD.

DNA info reports that the thief stole stashed away bags from riders of the Steeplechase, Soarin Eagle, and Windstar rides.

The suspect is described as a light-complexioned male.

Anyone with information is asked to call the NYPD’s crime stoppers hotline at 800-577-TIPS. The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the crime stoppers website or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) and then entering TIP577.

Update [May 28, 1pm]: A spokeswoman for Luna Park said the amusement park has stepped up security since learning of the incidents and urged park goers to take extra precautions in protecting their valuables.

“The number one priority is always the safety and well-being of our guests who come to experience Luna Park each year. To this end, we have a comprehensive security system, including cameras, lockers with permanent locks, and trained personnel on site. The thefts in question are isolated incidents and have occurred not from the secured lockers but from open cubbies placed outside of certain rides and meant for small items.  We urge all our guests to use the secure lockers for all their personal valuables,” said Luna Park brand manager Angie Morris.

“At the same time, we have increased our security efforts by installing more cameras and patrols by our security personnel. We are in coordination with our local precinct.  Luna Park will continue to make adjustments in order to ensure that guests always have the most enjoyable and safest experience,” she added.