Newark, DE – Delaware State Police are investigating a shoplifting turned robbery that occurred Wednesday evening.
On November 25, 2020, at approximately 5:23 p.m., troopers responded to Home Depot located at 2000 Peoples Plaza, Newark, for a robbery. The initial investigation revealed the suspect attempted to shoplift two chainsaws and was confronted by employees as he was exiting the business. The suspect who was armed with pepper spray, dropped one of the chainsaws and sprayed three employees in the face. The suspect fled and a fourth employee chased him into the parking lot. The employee was able to remove the second chainsaw from the suspects hands, but during the confrontation the suspect stabbed him in the arm. The 53-year-old victim of North East, MD, was treated at an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The other three employees/victims were treated by EMS at the scene.
The suspect fled the scene on foot.
The suspect was described as a white male, approximately 5’5″ tall, heavy build with a dark beard. He was wearing all dark colored clothing, a black mask, and gloves.
Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact Detective Harris with Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigative Unit by calling 302-365-8410. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or via the internet at http://www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com .
If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit/Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll free hotline 1800 VICTIM-1. (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the unit Director at debra.reed@state.de.us.