Man, 59, arrested in UVa robbery

A Charlottesville man was arrested Tuesday in connection with a robbery and wounding at a University of Virginia administrative building.

Robert Smith of 802-M Hardy Drive was charged with one count each of malicious wounding, breaking and entering, and grand larceny. He is being held at the Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail.

University of Virginia Police say Smith, 59, entered 918 North Emmet St. on Monday disguised as a construction worker and stole a UVa employee’s purse.

The employee followed behind and alerted others about the theft.

Another UVa employee tried to block Smith from driving away, but was struck by Smith’s vehicle, police said.

The victim who was hit by the car was treated and released from UVa Medical Center.