If it was “left behind” it wasnt for long, as you suggested, but this is a loose end of the story that doesn’t jive- imo.
Granted, most people are honest; but 'it' happens. . .when you least expect it.
Of course, maybe - could happen - her purse will show up. And the tooth fairy. . .oh, no need to go there.
If some NOPD or EMS are fellow travelers in the leftist cauldron of hate and violence, then one of them likely took it, either out of meanness and to rip her off, or to make the attack look reobbery motivated instead of politically motivated.