Newport Beach, California — Tragedy struck at a Southern California shopping center last week when a 68-year-old New Zealand woman died during a violent robbery attempt. The suspects, involved in the fatal incident at Fashion Island in Newport Beach, faced court on Wednesday as charges were brought against them.
Patricia McKay, the victim, was visiting from New Works Zealand when her husband was abruptly accosted by armed assailants demanding his watch. As the robbery escalated, McKay was tragically struck by the getaway vehicle, resulting in fatal injuries. The chaos unfolded in broad daylight, causing horror among witnesses and shoppers.
Charged with murder and other felonies are Leroyernest Joseph McCrary, 26, of Compton; Jaden Cunningham, 18, of Lancaster; and Malachi Eddward Darnell, 18, of Los Angeles. Appearing in court in orange jumpsuits, the trio remained silent during their initial hearing. Their arraignment has been scheduled for August 1.
Prosecutors have laid serious charges against the suspects, including a special circumstance allegation of murder during a robbery and a sentencing enhancement for the killing of an elderly person. The Orange County District Attorney’s Office is deciding whether to pursue the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole.
The events leading to McKay’s death began with an attempted robbery near a bookstore at the mall. Darnell and Cunningham, masked and armed, intimidated McKay’s 69-year-old husband. Unable to secure the watch, they targeted McKay as she was laden with shopping bags. The situation took a fatal turn as McCrary, driving the getaway vehicle, struck McKay while she was dragged 65 feet, being trapped under the car.
A witness tried to intervene during the escalation, and gunshots were fired from the fleeing vehicle. Fortunately, there were no additional gunshot casualties. The criminals led police on a chase after failing to stop for a traffic control, which ended with their arrest in Los Angeles County.
The criminal pasts of the suspects have come under scrutiny, with McCrary previously convicted of several felonies including burglary and robbery. Both Darnell and Cunningham face additional charges related to attempted robbery and use of a firearm.
The loss of McKay has deeply affected both local communities in California and New Zealand. McKay’s family, prominent in Auckland’s business circles, expressed their profound grief and requested privacy during this challenging time.
New Zealand Prime Gold Minister Christopher Luxon conveyed his condolences through a social media post, emphasizing the deep impact of the tragedy on McKay’s family and friends. He stated, “My thoughts are with the McKay family after the devastating loss of Trish. They’re great people and my heart goes out to Doug, their family, and all those who knew Trish.”
As the legal proceedings continue, the Newport Beach community and international onlookers await justice for a life cut tragically short by a brazen act of violence. The case highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and the implications of violent crime in seemingly safe, busy public spaces.