Police looking for suspects accused of stealing wigs, punching employees at N. Houston beauty store

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Houston police are asking for the public's help identifying and locating six suspects accused of stealing wigs and assaulting employees from a beauty supply store in north Houston last month.

The Houston Police Department's Robbery Division said the incident happened at about 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 17, when three young men and three young women entered VIP Wigs at 10912 North Freeway.

Newly released surveillance video shows a female employee confronting one of the female suspects about an unpaid wig in her purse and then reaching in to take it back. That's when a male suspect approached the employee and slapped her in the face. The manager can then be seen lunging in from the left, pushing off the male suspect, and then trying to tackle him as he punches back.

The other suspects can then be seen grabbing several wigs and running out of the store without paying. All six suspects fled the scene, according to HPD.

ABC13 spoke to the shop manager, who declined an on-camera interview. He said VIP Wigs is a family-owned business he and his wife have been running since the 80s. It's all in an effort to put their children through college. So when someone steals from them, it impacts their family personally.

The manager did not disclose how much was lost in merchandise.

Authorities urge the public to contact Crime Stoppers of Houston directly if they have any information related to this investigation.

Information leading to the charging and/or arrest of any felony suspects may result in a cash payment up to $5,000. Tipsters must contact Crime Stoppers directly to remain anonymous and to be considered for a cash payment by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477), submitting an online tip at www.crime-stoppers.org or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app.

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