Surveillance Pictures, Video Released In Attack On Chelsea 80-Year-Old

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Police have released surveillance photos and video of a suspect who they said knocked an elderly woman to the floor of her apartment in a home invasion and robbery in Chelsea.

It was around 4 p.m. Thursday when an 80-year-old woman was about to enter her 10th floor apartment at West 28th Street near 8th Avenue when police say a man came up from behind.

The suspect knocked her to the floor and took her pocketbook before running out of the building.

The suspect got away with about $150 in cash, which was in the victim's purse.

Residents of the Chelsea high-rise say they're now being more careful and more alert around their building.

"It's scary because it's rare," one resident said.

People who live in the building say there are usually security guards patrolling the property.

"Everyone wants to live here so to walk by now and see this, I'm totally surprised," said resident David Lutzker.

"That's scary and it's also not 2 in the morning, it's in the afternoon," another resident said.

The woman was not seriously hurt.

The suspect is described as 5'9"-6' tall with a slim build. He was last seen wearing dark clothing, police said.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or 1-88-57-PISTA (74782) for Spanish. You can also submit a tip via the Crime Stoppers website or by texting a tip to 274637 (CRIMES) and then enter TIP577.

All calls are kept confidential.