Crime Spree: Purses, Car, Stolen From Oxford Area Gas Stations

OXFORD, CT — Purses are being stolen out of cars at area gas stations while their owners are pumping gas, police have reported.

The Ansonia Police Department is investigating two purse-snatching complaints received Monday. One incident occurred at the Shell Station on Great Hill Road, and the other at the Stop and Shop gas station on Division Street.

Police suspect that a gray Kia Sorrento, possibly stolen out of Stratford today, was involved in the thefts.

Also on Monday, another purse was lifted at the Mobil Station at the bottom of Mountain Road in Oxford, and a car was stolen from a Shelton gas station, according to a Facebook post by Seymour First Selectwoman Annmarie Drugonis.

The Seymour Police are investigating the crime along with other Valley agencies, Drugonis said.

Both Drugonis and the Ansonia Police urged area residents to keep their car doors locked while pumping gas and unloading groceries, and be aware of their surroundings and of anyone hanging around the lot of a gas station.

"Our Police Officers are trying their hardest to identify and apprehend these individuals. Some individuals are repeat offenders and know the system," the first selectwoman posted.