News

Woman pepper-sprayed trying to stop thieves from Safeway in Old Town

By James Cullum
A woman was pepper-sprayed attempting to stop two shoplifters at the Safeway at 500 S. Royal Street in Old Town (via Google Maps)

A woman was pepper sprayed at the Safeway at 500 S. Royal Street on Saturday night (June 29) while attempting to stop two alleged shoplifters.

The Alexandria Police Department said that the 40-year-old victim tried to intervene when two female suspects attempted to leave the store without paying. One of the suspects then sprayed the woman in the face.

No arrest was made and suspect descriptions have not been released. Anyone with information can call the Alexandria Police Department’s non-emergency number at 703-746-4444. Callers can remain anonymous.

About the Author

  • Reporter James Cullum has spent nearly 20 years covering Northern Virginia. He began working with ALXnow in 2020, and has covered every story under the sun for the publication, from investigative stories to features and photo galleries. His work includes coverage of national and international situations, as well as from the White House, Capitol, Pentagon, Supreme Court and State Department. He's covered protests and riots throughout the U.S. (including the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol), in addition to earthquake-ridden Haiti, Western Sahara in North Africa and war-torn South Sudan. He has photographed presidents and other world leaders, celebrities and famous musicians, and excels under pressure.