Police in Springfield, Massachusetts, are searching for a man who allegedly walked up to customers in Walmart, hugged them, and told them he has COVID-19.
"Just giving you a COVID hug. You now have COVID," the suspect said before laughing and walking away.
One of the victims, who is a cancer survivor, called the police. They told the responding officers they witnessed the man hugging other customers in the store.
Authorities released surveillance footage, which showed the man wearing a black face mask, a black T-shirt with the word "AERO" printed on the front, and gray camouflage shorts. It is unknown if he has COVID-19. The man is facing charges of assault and battery and making terroristic threats.
Officials have asked anybody who may know the suspect or his whereabouts to contact the Springfield Police Department's Detective Bureau at 413-787-6355.
Photo: Springfield Police Department