FARMINGTON HILLS (WWJ) -- A young Oakland County man is facing up to life in prison on an attempted murder charge for a brutal assault on an elderly man at a local gym.
It happened at around 10:40 a.m. on the locker room at the YMCA on Farmington Road, where police said they found an 80-year-old man unconscious with severe injuries to his face.
According to the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office, 20-year-old Malik Ali Smith of Farmington Hills got into an argument with the older man, and a witness "heard a physical altercation and went to see what was happening."
The witness then saw the victim slumped over the counter before Smith "slammed the victim’s head into the counter." The Good Samaritan intervened and pulled Smith away, and 9-1-1 was called.
Prosecutors said Smith fled as the victim was rushed to a hospital.
He was located quickly, thanks to a tip from another Good Samaritan, and arrested.
Officials said the victim remained hospitalized in critical by stable condition Monday. His name has not been released.
According to police, one of the witnesses who intervened was Michigan Wolverines football legend Braylon Edward.
“As evidenced by the significant injuries inflicted on the victim, it is clear that Mr. Braylon Edwards’ intervention played a pivotal role in saving the victim’s life,” said Farmington Hills Police Chief Jeff King. “This is a horrific incident, but the selfless efforts made by Mr. Edwards embody the best in our society.”
Smith was arraigned Saturday in 47th District Court where his bond was set at $250,000 cash/surety, no 10%. If he does post bond, Smith was ordered to have no contact with the victim, wear a GPS tether, and he is not permitted to return to the YMCA.
“This was a vicious, senseless attack,” stated Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald, in a statement. “I commend the witness who intervened, and we will seek justice for this victim.”
Smith will be back in court for a Probable Cause Conference set for March 13.