Armed man in O.C. tried to grab a purse but got pepper sprayed instead

A suspected robber who tried to take a woman’s handbag at gunpoint on Christmas morning in Westminster was pepper-sprayed instead, police said.

The woman was walking near the intersection of Bushard Street and England Avenue when she was approached by a man on a bicycle, Westminster Police said.

“Instead of exchanging joyful Christmas wishes, the suspect pulled out a pistol,” the statement said.

The woman refused to give up her purse, instead grabbing her pepper spray and using it on the suspect.

“Fortunately, the suspect did not shoot the victim and instead fled the scene on his bicycle,” the statement said.

The suspect fled before police arrived.

The man was described as slim, with a chiseled face, a pointed nose and in his 30s. He was about 5 feet, 9 inches tall and wore a black cap, jacket with white writing, black pants and a jacket.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Westminster Police at (714) 548-3767 or (714) 548-3773.