Cops release sketches by witness to robbery

As cops rushed to the scene of an armed robbery inside a South Street grocery store Sunday night, one witness was already making sketches of the alleged robbers.

Yesterday police released those sketches as part of the investigation into the two thugs who terrified employees and customers inside the South Square Market Thriftway before fleeing with their loot.

According to Sgt. Cynthia Cureton, of South Detectives, two men entered the store, on South Street near 22nd, about 10 p.m. One of the men flashed his weapon and told everyone to freeze.

The other man grabbed the store manager and forced him into an office, where he was ordered to give up money.

Cureton said the two men took about $8,000 in cash before fleeing on foot.

The first suspect was described as African-American, 25 to 32 years old, about 5-foot-7, 140 to 160 pounds, medium build, with a dark brown complexion, dark brown eyes and a full beard.

The second suspect was described as African-American, 23 to 27 years old, about 6-foot-4, 240 to 260 pounds, with a light brown complexion, a full beard and silver-framed glasses.

"We do believe that they are connected to other robberies," Cureton said.

No one was hurt in the robbery, but Cureton said the two men should be considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts or identities of the suspects should call 215-686-3013 or -3014.