Family with toddler robbed at gunpoint at McAlpine Greenway Park

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A woman said she and her sister, who had brought her 2-year-old son with them, were robbed at gunpoint Thursday afternoon at a southeast Charlotte greenway.

[CMPD looking to beef up security at light rail, greenways]

The robbery happened around 2 p.m. at McAlpine Greenway Park off Monroe Road.

Maria Mujica said she was running with her sister while her adult nephew and the victim's 2-year-old son were trailing behind when a man approached them and pointed a gun directly at them.

He told them to unzip their jackets and demanded any jewelry or cash.

Mujica said they quickly took off any jewelry they had on, handed it over and the suspect took off.

Mujica said she pleaded with the stranger not to hurt them.

"He took out a gun and we told him, 'No, no, no, no, don't hurt us! I have a baby.' He was in the stroller," Mujica said. "Right now, I'm honestly traumatized. I'm really scared. I'm just thankful my son is OK. We're OK, but we're really scared."

Chopper 9 was deployed to the area, and from above, authorities could be seen searching for the suspect.

No arrests have been made.

The violent crime has shocked people who frequent the greenway. They told Channel 9's Stephanie Tinoco they are nervous the suspect has not been caught yet.

"I don't know what I would do if we were just here, I wouldn't even know," Sara Linsmeier said. "I mean well, it doesn't really make me want to be here right now. Maybe try a different park next time."

No other information has been released.

This is an ongoing investigation. Check back with wsoctv.com for more information. 

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