Selden man mugged at ATM, helps Suffolk police catch suspect

SELDEN, N.Y. (WABC) -- Police arrested man in Suffolk County who they said attempted to rob a man at an ATM - before his 81-year-old would-be victim fought him off.

On Tuesday, Suffolk County Police officers responded around 6 p.m. to the report of a robbery at Independence Plaza on Route 25 in Selden. The victim was getting cash at an ATM when a man grabbed the money and punched him.

But the victim, who lives in Selden, fought back, causing the suspect to flee without any money.

A short time later, police arrested and charged Paul Rysanek, 21, of Selden with attempted robbery. He is scheduled for arraignment in Central Islip July 17.

The investigation is continuing. Anyone with information about the case should call (631) 854-8652 or anonymously at 1-800-220-TIPS.