Appleton police arrest a 17-year-old man for allegedly robbing two people in the parking lot of a convenience store.
Someone called 911 around 12:30pm on Saturday to report a robbery at 730 E. Wisconsin Avenue. Investigators say the suspect first approached a 21-year-old woman who was pumping gas. She locked herself in her car. Police say the suspect repeatedly tried to get into her car while demanding she give him her money. He did not get any cash, and the woman was not hurt.
Police say the suspect then walked up behind a 56-year-old woman in the parking lot and demanded that she give him her purse. The victim ended up on the ground and fought to keep her purse. That's when investigators say the suspect stabbed at her nine times with a screwdriver. She gave him her purse and then followed him as he fled from the parking lot.
When officers arrived, witnesses pointed them towards North Rankin Street and East Pacific Street. Officers found the 17-year-old suspect and arrested him. Police say, he confessed to the robbery and attempted robbery and told investigators he needed the money to travel back to Milwaukee.
The stabbing victim's purse was found in a garbage can. She was treated on the scene for her injuries.
Police say the suspect had money and a screwdriver on him when they took him into custody. He's now in the Outagamie County Jail. Police are recommending charges of robbery with the use of a dangerous weapon and attempted robbery.
