Queens, New York- A 68-year-old woman was violently assaulted and robbed as she entered a church in Queens, according to the New York City Police Department (NYPD). The incident, captured on security footage, shows the suspect pushing the victim down a flight of steps before stealing her belongings.
The unidentified attacker trailed the unsuspecting victim outside the St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in the Jamaica section of Queens. The suspect then lunged in front of her, causing her to fall and land on her back. As the victim laid in pain on the ground, the perpetrator rummaged through her purse and made off with $300, her cellphone, and her 2006 Nissan Altima.
Described by the NYPD as an 18 to 25-year-old male with a medium build and a dark complexion, the suspect was last seen wearing a red hooded sweatshirt underneath a black jacket and black pants. He was also wearing a black face mask and black Jordans with red trim.
The woman, who remains unidentified, was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. However, the Rev. Konstantinos Kalogridis confirmed that she is now awake and recovering. Kalogridis visited her at the hospital, offering his blessings and providing her with holy communion.
The victim’s nephew has shared the NYPD’s wanted poster and security footage on social media, urging the public to help locate the perpetrator. The brutal incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety precautions, even in places of worship.
The NYPD is actively investigating the case and is urging anyone with information to come forward. Authorities are working diligently to apprehend the suspect and bring him to justice.