76-Year-Old Stops Masked Suspect in Florida Store Robbery

On September 1, 2025, in Port St. Lucie, Florida, a 76-year-old man heroically intervened in a jewelry theft, tackling a masked 15-year-old suspect and aiding police in his arrest. The incident began around 12:30 p.m. on Labor Day at Tradition Square, where the juvenile allegedly stole from two department stores, including a Burlington store.

After discarding an empty jewelry box at a nearby Mattress Firm, the suspect, still wearing a balaclava, was spotted by police sitting on a park bench. Noticing the officers, he fled toward a Publix http://supermarket.As the teen attempted to escape through the store’s front door, the elderly bystander, whose identity remains undisclosed, sprang into action. He tackled the suspect, halting his escape and allowing officers to apprehend him. Body camera footage released by the Port St. Lucie Police Department (PSLPD) captured the dramatic moment, showcasing the citizen’s bravery. Master Sgt.

Dominick Mesiti praised the Good Samaritan, noting, “It’s brave because the citizen doesn’t know if he’s armed or what he did.” However, police cautioned against such interventions due to potential risks, as the 76-year-old suffered a minor arm cut but was otherwise unharmed. The suspect faces charges related to the theft, though specific charges were not detailed in reports.