Photo: Hélène Desplechin / Moment / Getty Images
Pompano Beach, FL - A bus ride turned violent when an elderly passenger was allegedly assaulted and robbed without provocation aboard a Broward County Transit bus in Pompano Beach.
The incident occurred on March 5th around 12:39 p.m. near the 600 block of Southwest 12th Avenue.
According to the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO), the elderly victim was seated quietly when the suspect, described as an adult male, approached him, began cursing for unknown reasons, and adopted an aggressive “pre-attack” posture.
Witnesses told investigators that the bus driver, alarmed by the suspect’s behavior, pulled over and instructed all passengers to exit.
As the victim walked to the front of the bus to inquire why the ride had stopped, the suspect allegedly launched a sudden, violent assault.
Authorities say the man punched the victim, knocking him unconscious, then stole his cellphone before fleeing the scene.
Emergency responders transported the injured man to Broward Health North, where he was treated for multiple injuries.
The suspect remains at large.
He is described as approximately 30 years old, 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing around 160 pounds, and was last seen wearing a white long-sleeve jacket, black shirt, and black shorts.
Investigators are urging the public to come forward with any information that could lead to the suspect’s identification or arrest.
Detective Francine Yap of BSO’s Pompano Beach District is leading the case.
Tips can be submitted via the SaferWatch App, by calling 954-786-4283, or anonymously through Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477).