Baltimore County Police are beefing up security after two armed robberies were reported at White Marsh shopping centers Sunday.
Police said just before 5 p.m., a 28-year-old woman was putting her children in her car when she was robbed at gunpoint. The incident took place at the White Marsh Mall parking lot near the food court.
"Suspect displayed a weapon, took her purse and her cell phone, he then got into a car occupied by three other people, and they left," Baltimore County Police Corporal John Wachter said.
At 10:20 p.m., a 21-year-old woman was getting into her car when she was robbed by two armed suspects on the parking lot at Avenue at White Marsh near Della Rosa’s. The thieves took money, keys and a cell phone, police said.
The women were targeted, but police say shoppers have no reason to be afraid.
"We do have extra patrols in the area, in addition we also have undercover detectives in the area looking for these suspects," said Wachter.
ABC 2 News spoke with people at both shopping centers, and while the muggings are alarming, they tell us they will not avoid the area.
"I'll do my regular shopping, but I'll be more careful," said Rebecca Mbiriri.
"It's nice out here, we like walking around so we'll be back," Lori Chesser said.
Officials say it's best to park in well lit areas, shop in groups so you're not alone, be aware of your surroundings, and to call police if you see anything suspicious.
Detectives are checking surveillance video from the area, and so far have not released a suspect or vehicle description in either hold-up.
Anyone with information is asked to call the White Marsh Precinct at 410-887-5000 or Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7LOCKUP.
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