Detectives looking to identify serial Olney armed robbery suspect

Investigators released surveillance video and images Tuesday of a man wanted for at least seven armed robberies over the past month.

The suspect has targeted businesses and individuals since early December in Olney and Logan, with a majority of the incidents occurring on or near the North 5th Street commercial corridor, police said. No injuries have been reported as a result the robberies.

“We’re also investigating several other jobs over the last couple months to see if there are any more we can tie in,” Captain John Craig, of the PPD’s Northwest Detective Division, told Metro.

On Jan. 10, just before 8 a.m., the owner of Harry’s Hair and Nails Salon said he was opening up his shop, near 5th Street and Olney Avenue, when a man came in, gestured that he had a firearm and demanded money, authorities said. The shopkeeper complied, and the man fled south on 5th Street, according to the PPD.

Craig said similar robberies have been reported on the 5200 block of A Street, the 5100 block of N. 5th Street, the 5500 block of N. Fairhill Street, the 1800 block of Sulis Street, the 400 block of W. Tabor Road and the 5600 block of Park Avenue, with the first incident occurring Dec. 8.

Detectives believe the perpetrator is the same based on surveillance footage and the method of the robbery. Craig said he appears to be carrying a gun.

“Obviously, this individual is very dangerous,” he added. “Individuals should call 911 with any information. They can also call Northwest Detectives at 215-686-3353.”

Residents can also call or text 215-686-8477 or submit tips online at phillypolice.com/forms/submit-a-tip.