ST. PETERSBURG — Two masked robbers pepper-sprayed store clerks during a late-night holdup at a downtown St. Petersburg CVS, the third time they’ve hit the pharmacy chain in the city since December, police said.
The robbers forced their way behind the counter at the store at 301 Third St. S. about 11:45 p.m. Jan. 5, pushing one clerk and spraying pepper spray in her face, according to the St. Petersburg Police Department. When a second clerk tried to help, the robbers sprayed that person too.
The pair fled with more than $1,000 in merchandise, police said.
Investigators believe the same duo is responsible for other robberies across the region. Both appeared to be in their 20s with long black braids and wore blue surgical masks, police said. One wore a gray sweatshirt, black joggers with white stripes and tan Ugg-style boots. The other wore a white top with red hearts, black joggers and sandals.
Anyone with information can call St. Petersburg police at 727-893-7780 or text SPPD and a tip to TIP411.