Queens, New York – A 16-year-old suspect has been charged in connection with a violent attack and robbery of a woman as she walked to Sunday Mass in Queens. The incident, captured on security camera video, showed the 68-year-old victim, identified as Irene Tahliambouris, being thrown from the top step of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in the Briarwood section by the suspect who had been following her.
The surveillance video revealed the shocking moment when the woman landed on her back, hitting her head on the concrete sidewalk. As she lay motionless, the attacker rifled through her pockets, stealing her purse, and then fled the scene in her car. The victim suffered a skull fracture and a black eye, and was rushed to the hospital where she remains in critical condition.
Rev. Konstantinos Kalogridis of St. Demetrios expressed disbelief and horror at the heinous attack, describing the victim as a sweet and humble person who was simply coming to church to pray and participate. The reverend emphasized the evil nature of the crime, calling it a senseless act of violence.
Following the attack, detectives conducted a thorough investigation in the area, eventually leading to the arrest of the 16-year-old suspect. The identity of the attacker has not been disclosed due to his age. In a statement, the victim’s family condemned the attack as brutal and senseless, while praising law enforcement for their swift actions in apprehending the suspect.
The family criticized state and city laws for what they perceived as high rates of criminal recidivism, urging authorities to take necessary actions to ensure the safety of the community. Despite the severity of the injuries sustained by the victim, there were signs of hope as she showed recognition and responsiveness while fighting for her life in the hospital.
Rev. Kalogridis visited the victim in the hospital, describing her survival as nothing short of a miracle. The community rallied around the victim, offering support and solidarity in the face of such a traumatic event. As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on bringing the perpetrator to justice and preventing similar incidents in the future.