HOLLYWOOD HILLS—A retired teacher was attacked and robbed on Saturday, October 3 outside of a paint store in Hollywood at a strip mall on La Brea Avenue and Sunset Boulevard. A total of six suspects were involved in the attack against Fouad Mahassine, 65, who was stopping for coffee. The incident transpired after 11 a.m. in broad daylight.
The victim told NBC 4 Los Angeles, that the suspects demanded cash from him. “I told this kid, I don’t have any money,” Mahassine said. “Unfortunately, that was the wrong answer so he didn’t waste time. He hit me right in the head. Boom.”
He was struck in the head and kicked by the suspects and suffered a brain bleed and was hospitalized as a result of the attack. Fouad’s wife, Jackie Mahassine posted on the Nextdoor app the following message:
“PLEASE BE CAREFUL!! Six young men attacked, robbed and brutally beat my 65-year-old, frail, ex-husband, who was visiting from New York. He was walking home on La Brea near Sunset in broad daylight when this happened. Unfortunately, he had just withdrawn money, and they stole everything he had–including his cash, cell phone and wallet.
It is heartbreaking and frightening to think that someone would prey on an elderly person. He is on a limited income and is now dealing with the added financial burden, as well as physical pain, emotional distress and trauma. I am truly thankful to God that they did not take his life. I sincerely hope these individuals are identified and brought to justice so that this does not happen to anyone else.
A special thank-you to the kind bystander who stopped and called the police for help. Your compassion made a difference. Please stay alert and be careful, especially when walking alone. May God bless you.”
The Los Angeles Police Department Hollywood Division is investigating the case. Anyone with details on the attack or the suspects should call (213) 972-2971.
