Newport Beach, California – Three men now face murder and other criminal charges after the death of a tourist from New Zealand, who met her tragic end during a botched robbery attempt at a popular local mall, according to authorities last Friday.
The victim, identified as 68-year-old Patricia McKay, was fatally injured when she was run over in front of the Fashion Island mall. Orange County prosecutors described the incident as particularly heinous, given the involvement of elder abuse elements.
The suspects, Leroy Ernest Joseph McCrary, 26, Malachi Eddward Darnell, 18, both from Los Angeles, and Jaden Cunningham, 18, of Lancaster, could potentially face the death penalty if convicted. The charges include murder committed during a robbery, with additional felony counts varying among the individuals involved.
Specifically, McCrary is accused of attempting a second-degree robbery and evading arrest with reckless driving. His criminal history includes prior convictions such as residential burglary, criminal threats, and a recent robbery.
Darnell is charged not only with attempted robbery but also attempted murder. He faces enhancements for personally using and discharging a firearm during the incident. Meanwhile, Cunningham is charged with attempted robbery.
The attack occurred when McKay and her husband were confronted outside a bookstore by Darnell and Cunningham, masked and armed. The assailants initially tried to rob McKay’s husband, demanding his watch at gunpoint. Unable to procure the watch, they turned their aggression towards McKay, who was carrying several shopping bags at the time.
Amid these terrifying moments, Cunningham forcefully dragged McKay into the street directly in front of a car driven by McCrary. When McKay’s husband tried to intervene, McCrary accelerated, hitting McKay and tragically dragging her 65 feet beneath the car.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer expressed deep condolences for McKay’s death, reflecting broader concerns about rising crime rates. “This is the consequence of crime-friendly policies that compromise public safety,” Spitzer remarked, underscoring a commitment to maintaining law and order in the area. “We refuse to accept this as the new normal in Orange County,” he added.
Following the heinous act, a pursuit ensued involving local law enforcement. It took place north on the 405 Freeway, concluding with Cunningham’s capture as he attempted to flee the vehicle, and the subsequent arrest of McCrary and Darnell in South Gate.
This tragic case has not only devastated a family but has also drawn international attention, challenging local authorities to reevaluate their strategies in dealing with violent crimes, particularly those involving foreign visitors and older adults. The victim’s husband, directly involved in the ordeal, fortunately did not sustain serious injuries.
Local community leaders and safety advocates have called for a reassessment of public safety measures, ensuring that such a grievous loss of life does not recur, and that the law holds those responsible accountable to their full extent.