Washington police investigating theft of purse during Mass
Washington police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a woman who is accused of stealing a purse during Sunday Mass at a local church.
According to a post on the police department’s Facebook page, the theft occurred while the unidentified female churchgoer was at Communion during Mass at Immaculate Conception Church-St. James Parish. A woman stole the unattended purse and fled the church on foot. Security cameras captured her as she was leaving the building.
Police said the purse contained a handgun, cash and credit cards.
Jennifer Antkowiak, spokesperson for the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, said the diocese was “saddened” to learn of the theft.
“While our parishes take all appropriate measures to safeguard parishioners during attendance at Mass, it is important that all of us are aware of ourselves and our belongings whenever we leave our homes,” Antkowiak said in an email.
Antkowiak added that churchgoers should refrain from bringing their guns to Mass.
“We have since learned that the purse stolen in this case contained the personal firearm of the owner,” Antkowiak said. “As a reminder, it is the policy of the Diocese of Pittsburgh and its parishes that firearms are not permitted upon church property unless brought on by members of the law enforcement community.”
As of Wednesday, police did not have any suspects. Anyone with information is asked to call 724-223-4226 or to send a private message to the Washington police Facebook account.