A shopping trip took a dramatic turn after a couple was followed home and robbed while unloading their groceries.
According to police, the couple was targeted, and it was all caught on Kroger's surveillance camera in Hermitage around 11:30 a.m. Friday.
Lt. Scott Moore with the Wilson County Sheriff's Department said the suspect was patient, and the crime was premeditated.
"Not at any time they were parked did they get out of the vehicle. It was as if they were scouting the parking lot and saw an elderly couple coming out and just thought it would be a good target," said Moore.
The surveillance video shows the older couple get into their car with their groceries.
Then, a man in a white 4-door sedan starts to follow them down Lebanon Pike near Shute Lane in the Hermitage area.
The suspect followed them more than six miles to Earl Pierce Circle in Wilson County. When they pulled into their driveway, the man got out with a gun and robbed them, getting away with the woman's purse.
Lt. Moore said, "It's a ruthless act, and unfortunate that you've got criminals out there with no regard for the safety of the citizens around us."
The victims and their neighbors were too scared to talk on camera about what happened. The lieutenant said the community needs to be on high alert until they catch the suspect.
Lt. Moore said, "At this point I'm not really sure if they were aware that they were being followed. It was an elderly couple, and that's another thing too, it's very important as you're driving to always check your mirrors."
If you happen to be in a situation where you think you are being followed, Sheriff's deputies advise that you take a different route.
If you can drive to a law enforcement office, do that, and call 911.
Lt. Moore said, "Being vigilant, maybe having something whether it be a whistle or something that's loud sounding that would draw somebody else's attention, something that someone like an elderly person could utilize in a situation like this."
If you recognize the white vehicle or know who the suspect may be, call the Wilson County Sheriff's Department. Their Crime Stoppers number is 615-444-5245.
