A Cuban man from Hialeah has been arrested for assaulting and knocking unconscious an elderly man who was feeding chickens in the parking lot of a pharmacy. Edwyn Oriel Díaz, 46, was taken into custody last Thursday, the same day his victim turned 75 years old.
The incident occurred on July 10 outside the CVS Pharmacy located at 101 Hialeah Drive. Around 7:40 pm, the elderly man, who regularly feeds the birds, was suddenly attacked from behind by Díaz for no apparent reason. The senior fell face-first to the ground and lost consciousness.
According to the Hialeah Police, a witness captured a photo of Díaz with their cellphone and alerted the authorities. Díaz noticed and made an obscene gesture before leaving the scene. The good Samaritan also noted the license plate number of Díaz's vehicle, in which he reportedly sleeps.
The victim recounted that he only remembers regaining consciousness when neighbors escorted him back home. Prior to the assault, Díaz had approached him aggressively up to three times while he was feeding the birds.
Officers from the Special Victims Unit of the Hialeah Police found Díaz's vehicle outside his mother's home at 2100 block of West Fourth Court, with Díaz inside. He was arrested and charged with aggravated assault on a person 65 years or older, a first-degree felony.
Díaz is currently detained at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, and his bail has yet to be set.
Key Questions About the Assault Incident in Hialeah
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the assault incident involving Edwyn Oriel Díaz and the elderly man in Hialeah.
What led to the assault on the elderly man?
The assault appeared to be unprovoked as Edwyn Oriel Díaz attacked the elderly man from behind while he was feeding chickens.
How was Díaz identified and apprehended?
A witness took a photo of Díaz and noted his vehicle's license plate number, which helped the police locate and arrest him.
What charges is Díaz facing?
Díaz is charged with aggravated assault on a person 65 years or older, a first-degree felony.