An elderly woman in East Rochester, New York, recently suffered a broken hip after she was attacked in the parking lot of a local grocery store. The attacker knocked her down and stole her wallet, and police are still searching for the suspect, ABC affiliate WHAM reports.The incident took place in broad daylight at around 2 p.m. Police told the news source that the woman was struck from behind while she was pushing a shopping cart. They were shocked at the bravado of the criminal to attempt such an act where, and when, he did.
"Very bold move," East Rochester Police Chief John Tando told the news provider. "It was pretty decent weather [Thursday], middle of the afternoon, busy parking lot, to do something that brazen or that bold right then."
According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, there were 16.9 instances of violent crime per 1,000 people in 2009. Those looking to avoid being a victim of such an attack may want to buy pepper spray. Experts suggesting practicing with it, however, to ensure it's used properly if the need ever arises.
