75-year-old man attacked, robbed at Deerfield Beach park

Victim suffered cuts, bruises on body

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. – A 75-year-old insurance salesman was assaulted by three men on Tuesday when he stopped to use the restroom at a Deerfield Beach park, authorities said.

"I felt it was the end," the victim, identified only as Bert, said. 

Bert suffered cuts and bruises on his body following a terrifying stop at Johnny Mckeithen Park.

Bert said he was running early for a nearby appointment, so he stopped at the park to use the restroom. But he said he was soon cornered by three men in the park's bathroom.

"I was in trouble, and I was grabbed by my neck, thrown to the ground. He's 25 to 30 years old and I'm 75. I didn't have a chance," Bert said. 

Deputies said Bert laid on the ground unconscious as the thieves rifled through his pockets.

"He must've put me out, because when I got up, they were gone (and) my wallet was gone," Bert said.

Bloody and bruised, Bert stumbled to his next appointment, where someone called police.

The 75-year old grandfather and Army veteran was treated at the hospital for his injuries, and is now using his energy to help catch the crooks.

"We need to get these people off the street," he said.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to call Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.


About the Author:

Terrell Forney joined Local 10 News in October 2005 as a general assignment reporter. He was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, but a desire to escape the harsh winters of the north brought him to South Florida.