'I have only been here a few hours': Travel expert records theft during first day in San Francisco

Travel expert Scott Ford witnessed a bag theft during his first day in San Francisco, and captured the incident on video.

"I was walking the street, just did some shopping," Ford told SFGATE. "I heard a loud scream [from a] woman and saw from a distance she was pushed, [and had her] bag snatched."

Ford said the incident occurred on Market and O'Farrell Street on Wednesday afternoon. Shortly after the commotion, Ford said the purse snatcher came running at him.

Ford pulled out his phone and recorded the incident. He says he tried to stop the unidentified man, and said he came within an inch of grabbing him.

MORE CRIME NEWS: Northern California man sentenced to 17 years in prison for producing child porn

"[I] felt horrible," he said. "Felt so badly for the victim."

Police then arrived and spoke to Ford, who said he didn't know what happened to the woman after the incident.

Travel expert Scott Ford recorded a bag theft on Market St. on his first day back in San Francisco. Travel expert Scott Ford recorded a bag theft on Market St. on his first day back in San Francisco. Photo: Scott Ford Photo: Scott Ford Image 1 of / 17 Caption Close 'I have only been here a few hours': Travel expert records theft during first day in San Francisco 1 / 17 Back to Gallery

Ford posted the video to Twitter and wrote, "I can't believe my eyes. Woman's high-end designer bag. Cash. Passport. Valuables. I almost had him. I feel bad for this woman. I have only been here a few hours."

The San Francisco Police Department could not confirm any details.

Ford, who appears on a number of TV stations throughout the country as a travel expert, previously lived in San Francisco from 1998-2001. He currently resides in Ohio.

"I return often," he said. "I am familiar with the city, and always keep my eyes and ears open."

ALSO: Man dies in struggle with San Mateo County deputies

Wednesday marked the first day of Ford's latest trip to the city, and he said he's been impressed with the city's efforts to make the streets cleaner.

"Progress is happening," he said. "Streets are becoming cleaner. I can honestly say the direction is a good one. I would tell the community to be patient."

Ford also said he is considering moving back to San Francisco, and is exploring relocation options this week.

Eric Ting is an SFGATE staff writer. Email him at eting@sfchronicle.com and follow him on Twitter

Start receiving breaking news emails on wildfires, civil emergencies, riots, national breaking news, Amber Alerts, weather emergencies, and other critical events with the SFGATE breaking news email. Click here to make sure you get the news.