A confused-looking man with a BB gun tried to rob a Bell’s Corner delicatessen, failed, then robbed a nearby barbershop of $50 on Saturday morning, according to Philadelphia police Capt. Frank Bachmayer.
Northeast detectives are trying to identify and find the culprit, but already have recovered the small-caliber pistol used by the robber.
No injuries were reported, although Jack’s Deli, at 8502 Bustleton Ave., was packed with brunch patrons when the first phase of the mini-crime spree transpired. The crook first approached a deli cashier at about 10:48 a.m. and demanded money, Bachmayer said. The employee later described the gunman as “confused.” He fled the business empty handed.
About five minutes later, the same man showed up at Hair Styling by Alex at 1846 Bergen St. and announced another robbery, Bachmayer said. He took $50 from the cash register then ran away.
Witnesses described the suspect as a white man, about 27 or 28 years old, 6 feet tall and 180 pounds. He wore a navy blue hoodie with the lettering “NY State 54” on the back, as well as tan shorts and black sneakers. He was last seen running westbound on Bergen Street, then northbound on Loretto Avenue.
One woman who visited the deli moments after the failed heist told the Northeast Times that many patrons continued their meals despite the disturbance, which many patrons apparently didn’t even notice.
Call Northeast Detectives at 215–354–3153 to report information about the crimes. ••
