Armed Robbery Victim Forced to Swim Across Potomac River, Police Say

The suspects took the victim's wallet and cell phone, according to police

The victim of an armed robbery in Virginia was ordered to swim across the Potomac River, United States Park Police say.

The victim was near the first scenic overlook on the George Washington Memorial Parkway between 6 and 7 p.m. Thursday when he was robbed at gunpoint, police said Friday. His wallet and cell phone were taken, police said.

The victim was then forced to enter the Potomac River and told to swim across, police said. Authorities said he was able to reach the shore on the D.C. side of the river, where he alerted police.

Police weren't immediately able to provide more details.

They said two suspects were detained but were later released without being charged because they couldn't be positively identified as the attackers.

Police have not provided any suspect information.

Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at 202-610-8730.

During the course of the search, a Park Police officer experienced heat-related distress and was taken by helicopter to a local hospital. The officer was later released.

Contact Us