Tragedy at Fashion Island
On Tuesday afternoon at Fashion Island, Newport Beach, a 69-year-old woman tragically lost her life during a violent robbery attempt. According to the Newport Beach Police Department, the incident occurred near the Barnes & Noble bookstore around 3:30 p.m. The victim and her husband were walking when two suspects abruptly approached them, attempting to rob them. During the ensuing struggle, the suspects got into a white Toyota Camry in an attempt to flee.
Amid the chaos, one of the suspects fled on foot while the vehicle accelerated, tragically striking the woman. Newport Beach Police Public Information Officer Steve Oberon confirmed that although initially thought to have been shot, the victim was later determined to have been fatally struck by the Camry. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the shots fired during the incident.
During a subsequent press conference, authorities revealed heartbreaking details, mentioning that one of the suspects had dragged the woman down the street during the robbery attempt. The victim's husband, on the other hand, did not sustain physical injuries during the incident.
Following a brief but intense pursuit, law enforcement managed to apprehend three suspects: one in Cypress and the other two in South Gate, Los Angeles County. The police response was swift and decisive, with AIR7 footage capturing the moment several officers surrounded a residence in South Gate, some with weapons aimed at the property.
Newport Beach Mayor Will O'Neill expressed outrage and dismay at the criminal act, labeling the perpetrators as "thugs" and strongly condemning the violent attack. Despite the tragic incident, O'Neill emphasized the safety of the shopping center, stressing that Fashion Island remains a secure place for shoppers and residents alike.
The case remains under active investigation, as the Newport Beach community mourns the loss of the woman and reflects on security measures in public spaces.
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