Elderly man attacked by teens in Staten Island

A man was assaulted in the Sunnyside neighborhood of Staten Island on July 15, shortly after 7 p.m., while walking near the intersection of Howard Avenue and Clove Road. The incident began when a group of delinquents began to harass him, prompting the man to jump into the street to escape. He recounted the encounter, stating, “He raised his fists and said, ‘Pick one’ and I said, ‘Not interested.’” Despite the aggressive behavior, the group did not attempt to rob him, but he sustained injuries, including bruises and stitches, leading to approximately $5,000 in medical expenses. Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella condemned the attack, noting that the group of young individuals had been seen getting off a bus and roaming Clove Street prior to the assault. Fossella emphasized the randomness of the violence, stating, “He was just minding his business on a beautiful summer night,” and highlighted the potential for anyone to be a victim, including the elderly. The victim expressed feelings of fear and a desire to relocate following the incident, which has left him shaken. Authorities have charged two boys, aged 13 and 14, with assault with the intent to cause physical injury. The incident has raised concerns about safety in the community and the behavior of youth in public spaces. Local residents and officials are calling for increased vigilance and measures to prevent such attacks in the future, as the community grapples with the implications of this violent encounter.