Police Say Arrest Made In Random Attack On 87-Year-Old Man In Brooklyn
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- An 87-year-old man is recovering after being randomly attacked in broad daylight. He can rest a little easier because police said Tuesday afternoon they have made an arrest in the case.
The shocking incident happened at around 8 a.m. on Friday on Lexington Avenue near Grand Avenue in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn.
Exclusive surveillance video shows the victim pull up and park his van along Lexington Avenue.
Police said the suspect confronted the victim and said "I know you." The victim, however, told police he had never seen his assailant before. The victim is seen on video walking away, but the suspect follows him and drop-kicks him in the back, knocking him to the ground.
"It riles people up when he's been here for 20, 30 years. He's one of the first people I met when I moved to the block," Clinton Hill resident Ashley Cologner told CBS2's Marc Liverman.
"That's really scary to know that you're not safe nowhere. It's really shocking," resident Jacqueline Nelson added,
"That's somebody's grandfather. It's not cool, at all," added resident Dany Espiao.
The 87-year-old man broke his arm and suffered a gash on his head. He was taken to a nearby hospital in serious but stable condition.
And for what? Police said the elderly man wasn't robbed before his attacker took off. Now neighbors are keeping a closer eye on their surroundings.
"I'm a senior and I'm very, very concerned. Why would they attack seniors? Why are they attacking people who need love and attention?" resident Judy Bailey wondered.
"You gotta really be careful because this could happen to anybody and it's sad," added resident Barbara Bycinthe
