Gunman Robs Harrison, Mamaroneck, Commuters

Police are warning Metro North commuters to use caution today after armed robberies last night in Harrison and Mamaroneck.

In both incidents police say a male followed commuters on foot after they exited Metro North trains. The incident in Harrison took place at about 9 p.m. as the male victim crossed the I-95 overpass on South Road his way home.

Police believe the suspect, described as 5'10" and weighing 180 to 200 pounds, approached the victims from behind carrying a handgun. 

During the Harrison incident the suspect struck the victim in the back of the head, police say. The victim was able to make it to a nearby home where the occupants called 911 as the suspect fled the scene. Police didn’t release what was taken, but said the suspect didn't take anything of substantial value.

Injuries sustained weren't life threatening, police say, but they didn't provide specifics about the condition of the victim.

The Mamaroneck robbery took place 45 minutes earlier near the Mamaroneck Train Station, police say. There, a 59-year-old village man reported that he was walking home from the train on Stanley Avenue when a masked man came up behind him brandishing a black handgun and demanding his property. The man fled soon thereafter. No injuries were sustained.

Police believe the same man is responsible for both robberies.

Mamaroneck and Harrison Police responded to the scene. The Westchester County Police Aviation Unit flew a police helicopter over the area throughout the night.

Harrison Police were still investigating the bridge on South Road Friday morning, but have not apprehended the suspect. Police say the robber was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans and that a light colored bandana was used as a mask.

Harrison Police have distributed more than 500 flyers downtown warning commuters to be alert.

"The most important thing is that residents are aware of their surroundings and are cautious," said Harrison Police Lieutenant Edward Lucas. 

An increased police presence is also planned to continue near the Harrison Train Station.

"We are going to be monitoring our train platforms and keeping our residents safe," said Harrison Police Chief Anthony Marraccini, who added that similar incidents have been reported before last night in other Sound Shore communities. 

A took place just last month in Mamaroneck.

The police chief urged residents to be diligent and careful of their surroundings as police continue their investigation.

"Unfortunately, people have to be more and more careful about these types of incidents," he said.

Anyone with information about these robberies is urged to call Harrison Police at (914)-967-5111.

More details to come on this developing story.