A woman was able to escape a frightening early-morning robbery attempt after being forced into a car by masked suspects in the Whitehaven area, according to police.
Officers with the Memphis Police Department said the incident began around 3:20 a.m. Monday near the intersection of East Shelby Drive and Tulane Road.
What police say happened
According to investigators, the woman told officers that a man wearing a black ski mask grabbed her by the neck and forced her into a vehicle near East Shelby Drive and Tulane Road. Inside the car were two additional men, both also wearing black ski masks.
Police said the victim reported that one of the suspects sat in the backseat with her and held her by the arm to prevent her from escaping as the car drove away from the area.
Escape at train crossing
Officers were later called to South Parkway and South Willet Street, where the woman managed to escape when the vehicle stopped due to a train crossing. Police said she was able to open the door and run from the car.
As she fled, one of the suspects reportedly grabbed her purse, which contained her identification, debit card, and Social Security card. The suspects then drove away before officers arrived.
Suspect and vehicle description
The victim told police the suspects were three men wearing black ski masks. The vehicle was described as a gray four-door sedan with dark tinted windows. No additional suspect details have been released at this time.
Police said the woman was not seriously injured, but the incident remains under investigation.
How to help
Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH. Tips can be submitted anonymously.
Police continue to ask residents to remain alert, especially during overnight and early-morning hours, and to report any suspicious activity immediately.
