A tragic incident unfolded outside the Fashion Island Mall in Newport Beach, California, where a tourist from New Zealand lost her life during a robbery attempt on Tuesday. The victim, identified as Patricia McKay, 68, was with her husband near the Barnes & Noble store when they were approached by two male suspects who tried to rob them at gunpoint, according to the Newport Beach Police Department (NBPD).
During the robbery attempt, one of the suspects brandished a gun, leading to a struggle. The situation escalated as the woman was dragged into the parking lot area, and shots were fired, fortunately without hitting anyone. Tragically, McKay was then run over by a third suspect driving a white Toyota Camry, while her husband remained unharmed.
Following the incident, the suspects fled the scene in the Camry, heading northbound towards the Los Angeles area, prompting a police chase. Aerial footage captured one suspect fleeing into a residential neighborhood in the South Gate area before surrendering to law enforcement.
The other two suspects continued driving the Camry into Los Angeles County, where they abandoned the vehicle but were later apprehended by the police. The suspects were identified as Jaden Cunningham, 18, of Lancaster, Malachi Eddward Darnell, 18, of Los Angeles, and Leroyernest Joseph McCrary, 26, of Compton. They were booked on charges of homicide, robbery with a firearm, and conspiracy.
Newport Beach Mayor Will O'Neill condemned the perpetrators, labeling them as 'creeps' and denouncing the shocking attack. O'Neill emphasized the need for societal improvement to prevent such incidents from occurring, stating, 'We cannot tolerate this.' The community expressed deep sorrow over the loss of McKay, highlighting the rare occurrence of such violence in the area.
Witnesses, including a delivery driver, were stunned by the tragic event, noting the unusual nature of such violence in the typically safe community. The incident has left residents and authorities in Newport Beach reeling, emphasizing the importance of unity and vigilance in combating crime and ensuring public safety.
