17-8-2023 (LOS ANGELES) In a shocking incident that unfolded in the Hacienda Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles County, an elderly woman was violently dragged by a purse snatcher. Disturbing video footage captured the terrifying moment when the attack took place outside a Bank of America branch on Azusa Avenue and Pepper Brook Way. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon, leaving locals shaken and concerned about their safety.
The video reveals a male thief forcefully dragging the 75-year-old victim by her arm in an attempt to steal her purse. Despite her resistance, the assailant persisted, dragging her across the parking lot until he finally managed to snatch her purse and swiftly flee the scene. Bystanders were seen chasing after the suspect as the woman lay on the ground, injured and traumatized.
Local residents expressed their fear and apprehension following the incident. Jose Rafoya, a resident of the area, expressed his concerns, saying, “It’s scary to see that. It might be your aunt, your grandma. I come here with my wife, my little kid, and you never know. I open the door and somebody comes in with a knife or a gun. It’s scary.”
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is currently investigating the matter. The victim, who suffered scrapes and bruises during the assault, is in the process of recovery. Nick Liang, another local resident, empathized with the victim, stating, “It’s kind of heartbreaking. I don’t want that to happen to anyone. I’ve been robbed before, and I know that feeling of having my personal items stolen. It’s not a good feeling.”
Authorities have not confirmed whether the suspect was armed during the incident. However, they have urged the public to remember that no material possession is worth risking one’s life for. This incident in Hacienda Heights is just one of several recent robberies in the area, following another incident where a woman was stabbed by robbers outside Dottie’s Flowers in Reseda.
Raphael Contreras, a local resident, expressed his disbelief, stating, “It’s unbelievable because it’s daylight. To be honest, you hear about these crimes at nighttime. Now it’s just broad daylight. There’s a market down there, there are kids, there are businesses around. It’s crazy.”
The incident in Hacienda Heights follows a disturbing trend of escalating violent robberies. Over the weekend, a mob of robbers ransacked a Nordstrom store at the Westfield Topanga mall, resulting in the theft of over $300,000 worth of merchandise. A security guard was also attacked with bear spray during the incident. These incidents have left the community on edge, with concerns rising about becoming potential victims.
Liang expressed his growing worry about the escalating crime rate, stating, “Unfortunately, I feel like crime is getting quite out of control. I hope that lady can recover from her loss.” L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn also publicly addressed the incident, expressing her shock at the brutality and heartlessness of the perpetrator. She assured the community that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is actively pursuing the suspect’s arrest.
This is scary folks. A robbery yesterday at the B of A parking lot on Azusa Ave in Hacienda Heights, interrupted by good samaritans! Hey @HildaSolis,@SupJaniceHahn and all the social justice warriors, how’s that “reimagining” working out?#VictimsMatter pic.twitter.com/HSFaA0CGDh
— Alex Villanueva (@AlexVilanueva33) August 15, 2023
