SMITHFIELD – Smithfield Police have released photos of two suspects wanted for assaulting an elderly woman and stealing her purse. The woman had to be hospitalized because of her injuries.
It happened at 2:37pm Sunday at the Polo Ralph Lauren Store on Outlet Center Drive. The 71 year-old victim, who is from South Carolina, was standing in line when two suspects approached her. One suspect grabbed her purse and attempted to snatch it off her arm. 
When she began to struggle, the second suspect pushed her to the floor. The suspects, both young black males wearing masks, fled in an unknown white SUV on Outlet Center Drive towards Selma.
The stolen purse contained cash, debit and credit cards, a cell phone and prescription sunglasses.
Police believe there was a third black male with the two suspects, but the third person was not involved with the crime.
If you recognize either suspect you are asked to contact the Smithfield Police Department at 919-934-2121 or the Police Tip Line at 919-989-8835.
The victim is now recovering at home.
