Purse snatcher invading Bethesda schools, report of suicide on Battery Lane + more - Bethesda crime update

A man is allegedly sneaking into Montgomery County schools and day care centers, stealing purses, and then spending his ill-gotten gains at Target, Best Buy and grocery stores. Among his targets have been Bethesda Elementary School (June 19 between 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM), Somerset Elementary School (June 14 between 1:40 and 3:00 PM), and Montgomery Child Care in Garrett Park (June 9 between 11:00 AM and 4:30 PM).

Montgomery County police detectives have released several photos of a suspect, caught in the act with several purses slung over his arm. Anyone with information about this suspect or these thefts is asked to contact 2nd District detectives at 240-773-6710. For those who wish to remain anonymous, Crime Solvers of Montgomery County is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for any information that leads to the arrest of the unknown suspect. Tipsters can call Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).

Here's a roundup of crimes reported across Bethesda on July 5-6, according to crime data:

July 6

Car vandalized. 1 Bethesda Metro Center.

Suicide by firearm. 5000 block Battery Lane at 3:33 PM.

Burglary with forced entry. 7100 block Longwood Drive.

Possession of marijuana/hashish. 7100 block Democracy Boulevard.

Shoplifting. 4900 block Nicholson Court.

Burglary with forced entry. 5000 block Nicholson Lane.

July 5

Shoplifting. 8100 block Wisconsin Avenue.

Mental transport. 4600 block Montgomery Avenue.

Identity theft. 8300 block Burdette Road.

Burglary with forced entry. 7100 block Longwood Drive.

Identity theft. 5000 block Flanders Avenue.

Domestic violence assault. 5400 block Marinelli Road.

Mental transport. 5400 block Marinelli Road.

Mental transport. 10500 block Montrose Avenue.