By: Kevin Murphy – ItsSoSanDiego
Newport Beach was the scene of a heartbreaking tragedy on Tuesday afternoon when a 69-year-old woman was run over and killed during an attempted robbery at the Fashion Island shopping center. The suspects are now in custody, but the incident has left a community reeling and a husband devastated by the sudden and violent loss of his wife.
The Incident
Around 3:30 p.m., a group of suspects approached a couple outside the Barnes and Noble bookstore at Fashion Island, located at 401 Newport Center Drive. The suspects attempted to rob the couple, leading to a struggle. As the situation escalated, a white Toyota Camry, driven by a getaway driver, arrived.
One of the attackers tried to jump into the car but then turned and ran off, firing a gun in the process. Thankfully, no one was hit by the gunfire. Sgt. Steve Oberon of the Newport Beach Police Department recounted the tragic moment: “The other [suspect] got in the car and the suspect vehicle drove away, striking the female. Tragically and unfortunately, she was deceased there in the roadway.”
A suspect seen arrested in connection to an armed robbery attempt in Newport Beach that left a woman dead on July 2, 2024. …
The Pursuit
After the initial chaos, the suspects didn’t get far. They picked up their accomplice who had fired the shots and led police on a high-speed chase into Los Angeles County. The pursuit ended in South Gate, where the suspects abandoned the car and attempted to flee on foot. They were quickly apprehended by law enforcement.
Aftermath and Investigation
Aerial footage captured by Sky5 revealed a heavy police presence outside the Atrium Shops & Cafes. A canopy was set up to cover the victim’s body while detectives conducted their investigation. Sgt. Oberon mentioned that the specifics of what the suspects were after—jewelry, shopping bags, or something else—remain unclear and will be determined as the investigation progresses.
Community Reaction
Newport Beach Mayor Will O’Neill expressed outrage and sorrow over the incident. “There was an overwhelming and immediate response from Newport PD and neighboring agencies, which led to the quick arrest of the suspects,” he said. “You know, frankly, to hell with these guys. They knew exactly what they were doing when they decided to come into our city to commit a crime and a woman is dead because of it.”
The victim’s husband, who was present during the botched robbery attempt, was not physically injured. However, he is now left to cope with the emotional trauma of losing his wife in such a horrific manner.
Conclusion
This tragic event has shaken the Newport Beach community, serving as a stark reminder of the potential for violence even in the most unexpected places. As authorities continue their investigation, the community mourns the loss of a beloved resident and extends its support to her grieving family.
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*Credits for this story are given to KTLA5 Los Angeles