NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — The Brooklyn man accused of repeatedly bashing a 61-year-old Asian grandmother with a rock as she swept a Queens sidewalk and street the day after Thanksgiving last year is now facing murder and manslaughter charges.
Elisaul Perez, 33, was first indicted on charges of first-degree assault and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon. However, after GuiYing Ma died from her injuries, a Queens grand jury returned charges of second-degree murder and first-degree manslaughter, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said.
Perez faces a sentence of 25-to-life in prison if convicted.
According to the charges, Ma was observed sweeping at approximately 8 a.m. in front of 38th Avenue near 97th Street in North Corona.
Moments later, as seen on video surveillance, Perez allegedly picked up a chunk of concrete and struck Ma in the head, and after she fell to the ground, struck her a second time.
Ma was rushed to Elmhurst Hospital where she underwent emergency surgery for severe head trauma and brain injuries.
Officials said the woman never recovered and died of complications from her injuries following a three-month hospitalization.
"After sustaining traumatic brain injuries and attempts at life-saving surgical intervention, sadly Mrs. Ma died from complications from those inflicted injuries," Katz said. "We are committed to remaining vigilant at every stage of a case to help ensure justice for victims and family members."
Related
Related
