Conway locals react to recent theft in Sam’s Club parking lot

CONWAY, Ark. – The Conway Police Department is asking people to double-check their surroundings after officials said a woman had her purse stolen in the Sam's Club parking lot. 

Police said a woman was putting her groceries away when somebody came up and asked her for directions.

While the woman was distracted, police said a second person ran up and stole her purse from her car.

"And the way that they did it, like, just some lady trying to help someone in need," Mason Alexander, who works nearby, said.

Conway officials say it's easy for people to let their guards down in Conway because they're not used to being a victim of a crime. They said this serves as a good reminder to stay vigilant.

"We all need to do our part,” Conway city attorney Charles Finkenbinder said. “We all should be aware of our surroundings wherever we go. Keep our eyes on our valuables. And it's okay to be suspicious."