Phoenix police say they have captured the man who attempted to steal a wheelchair from a woman while she was riding the light rail on Friday, November 30.
According to police, Austin Shurbutt, 26, grabbed a woman's wheelchair and began to push her out of a light rail car near the 12th Street and Jefferson stop on around 3:40 p.m. on November 30.
The victim began to scream for help, but Shurbutt forcibly grabbed the wheelchair, causing the victim to fall from her chair during the struggle.
Police say Shurbutt then attempted to steal the wheelchair but was stopped by a group of bystanders who heard the victim screaming.
He’s behind bars! Austin Shurbutt is accused of trying to dump a woman out of her wheelchair last week on the light rail. The 26-year-old faces a long list of charges. Thanks to everyone for sharing his picture across social media today. pic.twitter.com/XUUR7xc692
— Phoenix Police Department (@phoenixpolice) December 8, 2019
Police say Shurbutt has two outstanding warrants.
He was also booked into jail and is facing several counts including robbery, attempt to kidnap, assault, and a vulnerable adult abuse charge.
