Delaware State Police are investigating the attempted strong-arm robbery of a man, 22, in a field north of the Christiana Mall, southeast of Newark.
At about 1:15 p.m. Sunday, the man was walking from Christiana Mall, through a field in the area of the bus stop on the north side of the mall property. The victim was approached from behind by a male suspect. He said he was punched in the back and knocked to the ground.
The suspect continued to kick the victim, demanding money and a backpack. The struggle continued, with the victim holding onto the backpack. The victim was able to run towards the mall parking lot, where he flagged down a Christiana Mall Security patrol vehicle.
The security officer exited his vehicle to assist the victim and the suspect fled on foot empty-handed toward the wooded area near Interstate 95. No. injuries were reported.
The assailant is described as a black male 20-25 years old, last seen wearing a white tank top and blue shorts.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Robbery Unit at Troop 2 at 302-834-2630 Extension #6 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333. Information can also be provided via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com
