NEW YORK (WCBS 880) — A 62-year-old woman who was hit in the head with a rock by a stranger months ago outside her Queens home has died.
GuiYing Ma was sweeping the sidewalk in front of her Jackson Heights home on the morning of Nov. 26 when 33-year-old Elisaul Perez allegedly struck her in the side of her head with a large rock.
The grandmother, who suffered severe head trauma and serious brain damage, emerged from a coma at NYC Health & Hospitals/Elmhurst earlier this month, but succumbed to her injuries on Feb. 22.
Perez was arrested for the attack and charged with with assault and harassment. He may face upgraded charges following Ma's death, which will reportedly be reclassified as a homicide.
“We are reviewing the latest development in this tragedy and will add or upgrade any appropriate charges supported by the evidence,” a spokesperson for the Queens District Attorney told the New York Daily News. “In the meanwhile, on behalf of the District Attorney, we extend our condolences to the family.”
A GoFundMe page created to help Ma's family with medical and other expenses has raised more than $180,000.
"Mrs. Ma came to New York four years ago from Liaoning, China," a statement on the fundraising page read. "She will be remembered as an outgoing, friendly and kind individual who took care of everyone, and insisted on giving to others even when she had very little to give."
Ma is survived by her husband, a son and two grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Perez's next court hearing is in April.
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