An elderly woman was the victim of the purse theft on Tuesday afternoon while walking in Turlock.

The incident happened shortly before 1 p.m. Tuesday in the area of W. Main and S. Beech streets.

The woman was walking when she was approached by more than one suspect, who pushed her to the ground and stole her purse, according to the Turlock Police Department.

Witnesses to the theft notified the police department and were able to provide a description of the vehicle the suspects fled in.

An unmarked police car on Highway 99 spotted the vehicle and followed it into Modesto until the California Highway Patrol made a traffic stop and took the individuals into custody.

The woman was unable to make an identification and the witnesses refused to assist, according to the police report.

The individuals were released and the investigation is ongoing.

The woman was transported to an area hospital for treatment of her injuries.