Queens, New York – A teenager is facing charges for allegedly attacking and robbing a 68-year-old woman outside a church in Queens, according to Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. The 16-year-old suspect, whose identity has not been released due to his age, is also accused of another robbery that took place a few days earlier.
The incident at the church, described as “vicious” by Katz, involved the teenager pushing the elderly woman down a flight of stairs before taking her purse, which contained $300, a cellphone, a credit card, and car keys. The victim, who was on her way to church when the attack occurred, suffered critical injuries after falling and hitting her head on the concrete, as seen in surveillance footage.
Following the robbery, the teenager fled the scene in the victim’s Nissan Altima. The NYPD reported that the victim was left in critical condition, prompting an immediate investigation that led to the suspect’s arrest near his residence. Additionally, the teenager was connected to a separate robbery on April 4, where he allegedly demanded money and keys to a vehicle in an elevator, simulating possession of a weapon.
The teenager now faces multiple charges related to the two incidents, including assault, robbery, grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property, and menacing. If convicted, he could potentially face up to 25 years in prison for his actions. The series of crimes has left both the community and law enforcement deeply concerned about the safety and security of residents in Queens.
The arrest of the teenager highlights the importance of swift and decisive action in cases of violent crime, especially those targeting vulnerable populations such as the elderly. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help prevent similar incidents in the future. As the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on seeking justice for the victims and ensuring the safety of all community members in Queens.