Norcross Woman Patti Bates Dragged During Violent Purse Snatching

NORCROSS, Ga. -- Patti Bates says she is still sore after what happened Sunday. She was at a Citgo station when she was knocked onto the ground as someone stole her purse.

"You walk in thinking nothing and walk out and boom!" said Bates. "I could not believe what was happening, it was traumatizing."

Bates had gone inside the store to make a purchase. She wasn't expecting what hit her when she stepped outside.

"And the moment I walked out, somebody grabbed me and my purse, and it knocked me down on the ground. And I held on to it till the strap broke, and he took off with my purse," Bates said.

In the process, the robber dragged Bates along the concrete, scuffing up her face, hands and knees.

"My instincts just held onto it. I didn’t really think I just held onto it. I even said no," said Bates. "I’ve never had that happen." There are witnesses, and investigators reviewing surveillance video.

According to a police report, there were two lookouts working with the purse-snatcher. It happened during the day, and now Bates wants to wa others to be careful.

"When you’re surprised, there’s nothing you can do, like I was. Be aware of your surroundings; walk out with someone else, even in the middle of the day," said Bates. "It's just violating and it just shook me up."

Police found Bates' purse in the woods behind the gas station. She said it was missing her wallet and a brand new cellphone. Authorities said they're following up on viable leads.