98-year-old man attacked with broomstick, metal chair in Brooklyn altercation, NYPD says
New York City police are searching for a suspect accused to attacking a 98-year-old man with a broomstick and metal chair during an altercation Thursday in Brooklyn.
The NYPD said the elderly man was assaulted after getting into an argument with a person handing out flyers in the lobby of a residential building near Maple St. and Rogers Ave. in Prospect Lefferts Gardens.
The person punched and kicked the nonagenarian multiple times before striking him with a broomstick and metal chair, investigators said.
EMS was called and treated the victim for minor injuries, police said.
"He's a fairly nice guy, so everyone who walks up and down here, either with their kids or are delivering stuff, like, they know who he is," said neighbor Pierre Verna. "He's a good guy, been around for a long time. So hopefully he's alright."
"Why would someone want to do something like that to someone like that? It's heartbreaking. It's sad. I don't know. I'm confused as to why. What was the reason for that?" another neighbor said.
Police said the suspect approached the elderly man just before the argument ensued, and then ran from the building east on Maple Ave. toward Nostrand Ave.
Surveillance video obtained by CBS News New York shows the suspect entering the building about five minutes before the victim.
After the victim's wife claimed the suspect was distributing flyers for District Leader Anthony Beckford's campaign, CBS News New York asked Beckford if he recognized the person in the video and if they were connected to his campaign.
"I am currently reviewing the situation to better understand the full circumstances, and I have personally reached out to the voter involved to ensure he is doing well and has the support he needs. While volunteers may operate independently, anyone associated with my campaign is expected to conduct themselves with respect and professionalism at all times, and if it is determined that an individual connected to my campaign acted inappropriately, appropriate action will be taken. We will continue to monitor this matter closely and remain prepared to cooperate with the appropriate authorities as needed, as our priority is maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all residents," Beckford said in a statement.
Anyone with any information is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). You can also submit a tip via their website or via DM on Twitter, @NYPDTips. All calls are kept confidential.
