Queens attack on 73-year-old woman caught on video
LINDENWOOD, N.Y. (WABC) -- Police are searching for suspects in a brazen attack on a 73-year-old woman in Queens, and they are hoping surveillance video will lead to arrests.
Just after 3 p.m. Tuesday in the vicinity of 153rd Avenue and 88th Street in Lindenwood, man and woman walked up behind the the victim, who was pushing a cart of groceries. They stole her pocketbook before the man punched her in the face.
"I'm bruised, but I'm here to talk about it," said the woman who wanted to remain anonymous because of safety concerns. "It was a little scary."
The pocketbook contained $100, a cell phone and assorted personnel items.
The victim said at first she thought nothing of the couple walking past her. "Stupidly, I had my bag in my shopping cart, and then before I knew it they were behind me," she said. "She's grabbing my bag. I tried to retrieve it, and he was in back and he punched me.
The punch caused the victim to fall to the ground, suffering a laceration to her ear and abrasions to her arm. She was transported to Jamaica Hospital and treated for her injuries.
A police officer saw the two running away, helped the woman and chased the pair, but they fled. The attack was recorded by security cameras in the area.
The victim arrived home Thursday night, and is recovering from bruises but attended Mass. "Nobody is going to stop me. I just hope they get the individuals," she said.
The first suspect is described as a black male approximately 18 years old with a thin build. He was last seen wearing dark clothing and tan cargo shorts.
The other suspect is described as a black female, approximately 18 years old with a thin build. She was last seen wearing a vest.
Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).
