Motel clerk struck on leg as robber steals purse

Vernon RCMP are investigating a robbery and assault that occurred Wednesday night at a local motel.

Mounties responded to a report of a robbery and assault just before 8 p.m. at the Days Inn Motel at 5121 26 St.

A lone male entered the motel and demanded cash from the motel clerk, said Const. Kelly Brett.

The man was told no money was kept on site.

The suspect then produced a metal crowbar and demanded the clerk hand over her purse.

Before the suspect fled the motel with the purse, he struck the clerk on the leg with the crowbar, said Brett.

“The clerk did the right thing by following the male’s demands in an effort to mitigate further injuries from occurring,” said Brett. “Risking your life for personal belongings is just not worth it.”

The hotel clerk sustained minor injuries from the attack but did not require medical attention.

Efforts to locate the suspect have been unsuccessful.

The suspect is described as a skinny Caucasian male five feet nine to five feet 10 inches in height and between the ages of 35 and 40. He wore blue jeans, a black hooded sweater, a white scarf around his neck and a black hat with a brim, and carried a dark-coloured bag with a cross-shoulder strap.

Witnesses report seeing an older-model white two-door GMC truck leaving the scene.

Anyone with information is asked to call RCMP at 250-545-7171 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 to remain anonymous.