Attempted robbery at Leesburg Publix

LEESBURG, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Leesburg Police officers, on Tuesday, responded to an attempted robbery in the parking lot of a Publix grocery store.

The victim, 85-year-old Josephine Moody, had left the store and loaded her purchases in the trunk. Before she was able to leave, a woman got out of a small white sport utility vehicle which was parked next to the Moody's car. The suspect grabbed Moody's purse and during a brief struggle pushed her to the ground. Moody began yelling for help and a witness came over to see what was happening.

The suspect jumped back into the SUV, which was driven by an accomplice and carrying two other passenger.

The suspect is described as black woman, about 5'6", with a medium build and in her early 20s. There is no description of the other people in the car and no tag number.

The victim received a minor cut to her arm from holding on to the purse and was treated at the scene.

According to reports, the Mt. Dora Police Department was working a similar case which occurred just prior to this incident. Detectives will be contacting investigators from that agency and following up any and all leads pertaining to this case.

The Leesburg Police Department is asking anyone with any information to call either the Leesburg Police Department at (352) 787-2121 or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS