California Homeless Man Brutally Attacks 2 Women, Leaving 1 in Coma
Mary Klein, 54, vividly recalls the harrowing night when she was ambushed while strolling along the canals of Venice.
On April 6, around 10:30 PM, Mary was suddenly attacked from behind by a California homeless man, later identified as Anthony Jones, New York Post reports.
She described the assault as akin to being struck by a truck, leaving her briefly unconscious and with severe injuries, including broken teeth, a fractured jaw wired shut, and a deep gash on the back of her head.
Mary, a single mother and dedicated caregiver, faces a long road to recovery, requiring multiple surgeries and extensive physical therapy.
The assault on Mary was not an isolated incident.
Just an hour later, another woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, fell victim to a similar attack along the Venice canals, leaving her in a coma.
The assailant, Anthony Jones, allegedly targeted both California women with a viciousness that shocked the community.
Surveillance footage captured Jones near the canals on the night of the attacks, prompting a swift and intensive manhunt by law enforcement.
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Suspect Apprehended, Community Reacts
On April 12, police confirmed the arrest of a California homeless man in San Diego.
The California homeless man, aged 29, described as a transient Black male with a height of 6 feet 1 inch and weighing around 200 pounds, has been apprehended and is currently in custody.
Mary expressed relief upon hearing news of the arrest, expressing sympathy for the other victim and extend her appreciation to the Los Angeles Police Department for their dedicated work in apprehending the suspect., KTLA 5 noted.
Mary's son, Robert Klein, echoed her sentiments, calling for accountability and justice for violent offenders.
The outpouring of Support and Calls for Action
As the community grapples with the aftermath of these brutal attacks, there has been an outpouring of support for the victims and calls for action to address broader public safety concerns.
Councilwoman Traci Park emphasized the urgent need to prioritize public safety, declaring that residents should not feel unsafe in any neighborhood, especially in Venice, a prominent tourist destination, according to Fox11.
Mary's injuries, documented on a GoFundMe page, underscore the devastating impact of such senseless violence, prompting renewed calls for addressing issues like mental health, drug abuse, and homelessness in Southern California.
The assaults in Venice serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing public safety crisis facing communities across Los Angeles.
With both California women enduring significant injuries, there is a collective sense of shock and outrage, fueling demands for tangible measures to enhance safety and prevent future incidents.
As investigations progress and the legal proceedings proceed, the community stands together, unwavering in its commitment to combat violence and safeguard the safety and welfare of everyone living in and visiting the area.
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Written by: Ross Key
WATCH: Woman recalls being nearly beaten to death by Venice canal attacker - From KTLA 5