Manchester Police Seek Suspects After Store Employees Assaulted with Pepper Spray During Theft

MANCHESTER, New Hampshire — Authorities are searching for a group of theft suspects who escalated a retail crime into an assault by deploying pepper spray against store employees.

According to the Manchester Police Department, the incident took place on April 5, 2026, when store employees confronted a group of individuals attempting to steal merchandise. Rather than complying, the suspects used pepper spray on the staff members to facilitate their escape. Emergency medical personnel responded to the scene to treat the affected employees for exposure to the chemical irritant.

Detectives are reviewing surveillance camera footage from the store and surrounding businesses to identify the suspects. The police have emphasized that shoplifting investigations become high-priority felony assaults when physical weapons or chemical agents are deployed against workers. Members of the community with any information regarding the identity or whereabouts of the suspects are requested to contact Manchester investigators immediately.