Bristol authorities have launched an urgent appeal for information as they seek to identify a man in connection with the theft of cash from an 87-year-old woman. The distressing incident occurred on Merchant Street, Bristol, around midday on Monday, August 21, leaving the elderly victim shaken.

The victim, who suffers from both vision and hearing impairment, had just completed a financial transaction at a local bank when an opportunistic thief struck. According to reports, an unidentified man approached the vulnerable woman, swiftly seized an envelope containing her cash, and made a quick getaway.

Descriptive details provided by witnesses describe the suspect as a white male, aged between 35 to 45 years old, standing at approximately 5 feet 8 inches in height. He possesses short brown hair, and notably, a distinctive “M-shaped” or “widow’s peak” hairline. At the time of the incident, the man was dressed in a dark blue padded jacket complete with a hood, grey trousers, and trainers featuring white soles.

The theft has left the elderly victim and the community deeply troubled, with authorities urgently calling upon anyone who may have witnessed the incident or can provide information about the suspect to come forward.

Detective Inspector Mark Henderson, who is leading the investigation, urged members of the public to assist in identifying the suspect, saying, “We’re keen to identify this man as part of our enquiries after the theft of cash from an 87-year-old woman.”

Henderson went on to emphasise the significance of community involvement, stating, “If you saw what happened, recognise the man, or have any other information, please contact us.”

For individuals willing to aid in the investigation, authorities encourage them to reach out by calling 101 and providing the reference number 5223202182 to the call handler. Alternatively, they can use the online appeals form to submit any relevant information.