Police: Both Lululemon Victims Sexually Assaulted; Suspects Followed Victims Into Store

Both victims in were sexually assaulted, Montgomery County police chief Tom Manger said at a press conference Monday afternoon.

The two Lululemon employees – one, 27, who survived, and another, 30, who was killed –returned to the store after leaving something behind around 10:05p.m., Manger said. Police believe that the two male suspects followed them in through an unlocked door. “We believe the two suspects followed them in seconds after the two victims entered the store,” Manger said.

Both victims were beaten, and Murray was beaten to death, Manger said.

Also at the press conference, a spokesperson for Lululemon announced the company would contribute $125,000 to the reward fund in addition to the $10,000 offered by Federal Realty and $1,000 offered by Crime Solvers of Montgomery County, bringing the reward total to $136,000. More Bethesda businesses are also looking into contributing to the fund, according to police. The reward can be offered for information that leads to an arrest and/or indictment in the crime, and police and businesses are urging anyone with information to come forward.

The spokeswoman for Lululemon, Alecia Pulman, thanked police for their work. “We are deeply committed to supporting the families and those affected by this horrible tragedy,” Pulman said.

Police still don’t know what the motive could be, but are looking at robbery, Manger said. “There is no indication right now that this is anything but a crime of opportunity,” Manger said.

Before leaving, the two victims closed the store around 9p.m. and set the alarm around 9:45p.m., Manger said. Police have received calls and tips from the community and several “good solid leads” on which they’re following up, Manger said. Police are still in the process of collecting and analyzing forensic data, Manger said. Police have also spoken with “every single business owner” in the area to determine if they have surveillance cameras that could aid in the investigation.

Police have stepped up their presence in Bethesda, Manger said. “Obviously we’re concerned about the safety of this area, and that’s why we’ve got this team of detectives working around the clock," he said.

When asked about the condition of the surviving victim, Manger said, “Physically, she’s improving. This incident was very traumatizing for her.”

Police spoke to media outside the Lululemon store, where an informal memorial of flowers, cards, notes and signs had been set up. "Remember victims, support survivors," read one note. Another read, "Two beautiful souls, one lost, one deeply hurt. Inexpressible sorrow. Love for deepest healing to all in need."

If you have information about the crime, contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477) or 240-773-TIPS (8477).