St. Petersburg, Florida – Police in St. Petersburg are searching for two robbery suspects after CVS store clerks were pepper-sprayed during a late-night robbery Monday, marking what investigators believe is the third related retail robbery in the city since early December.
According to the St. Petersburg Police Department, the incident occurred at approximately 11:45 p.m. at a CVS Pharmacy location at 301 Third Street South. Officers say the suspects fled with more than $1,000 worth of merchandise, and the investigation remains active.
What Happened at the CVS Store
Police say both suspects entered the store wearing face masks shortly before closing time. Surveillance video released by authorities shows one suspect forcing their way behind the sales counter and physically pushing a store clerk.
At the same time, the second suspect allegedly sprayed the clerk in the face with what investigators believe was pepper spray. When a second employee attempted to intervene, that clerk was also pepper-sprayed, police confirmed.
Despite the violent encounter, both employees survived the attack. Officials have not released information about whether the clerks required hospital treatment but emphasized that the use of pepper spray significantly escalated the danger of the crime.
Suspects Fled With Stolen Merchandise
After assaulting the clerks, police say the two suspects ran from the store carrying over $1,000 in stolen merchandise. Investigators have not disclosed the specific items taken but noted that the theft was organized and targeted, consistent with recent retail robberies in the area.
Officers quickly responded to the scene, but the suspects were gone before police arrived.
Pattern of Robberies Raises Concern
Investigators believe this robbery was not an isolated incident. According to police, the suspects are believed to be responsible for at least three store robberies in St. Petersburg since December 1, 2025.
Authorities also say the pair may be linked to additional retail robberies across the region, suggesting a broader crime spree that extends beyond city limits. Detectives are currently working with regional partners to determine whether similar suspect descriptions or methods match other open cases.
Suspect Descriptions Released
Police released detailed descriptions in hopes that someone may recognize the suspects:
- Both suspects
- Believed to be in their 20s
- Had long black braids
- Wore blue surgical masks
- Suspect 1 (pushed clerk)
- Long-sleeved gray sweatshirt
- Black joggers with white stripes
- Tan Ugg-style boots
- Suspect 2 (pepper spray attacker)
- Long-sleeved white top with small red hearts
- Black joggers
- Sandals
Police emphasized that even small details—such as clothing, gait, or associates—could help identify the suspects.
Pepper Spray Use Escalates Retail Crime Risks
Law enforcement officials note that the use of pepper spray in retail robberies is becoming more common, increasing the risk of injury to store employees and customers. Pepper spray can cause temporary blindness, breathing difficulty, and severe eye irritation, making victims especially vulnerable during an attack.
Police urge retail workers not to physically intervene during robberies, as suspects may be armed with chemical agents or other weapons.
How the Public Can Help
Detectives are asking anyone with information, surveillance footage, or tips related to the robbery to come forward. Even information that seems minor could help link the suspects to other crimes or identify their movements before or after the robbery.
Anyone with information is asked to:
- Call the St. Petersburg Police Department at (727) 893-7780
- Text:
SPPD + your tipto TIP411
Tips can be submitted anonymously.
Ongoing Investigation
Police say patrols and surveillance have been increased around retail corridors and late-night pharmacies as investigators continue to track the suspects. Additional charges could follow if the suspects are linked to other robberies across the Tampa Bay area.
Authorities say updates will be released as more information becomes available.
If you live or work in the area and noticed suspicious activity around the CVS on Third Street South late Monday night, police encourage you to report it. Share your experiences in the comments below.
