A tragic incident occurred at the upscale Fashion Island mall in Newport Beach on Tuesday, July 3rd, 2024. According to multiple sources, a woman was killed during an attempted robbery outside the Barnes & Noble bookstore.
The events unfolded when two men approached a husband and wife near the Barnes & Noble store at around 3:30 p.m., attempting to rob them. A struggle ensued, and in the chaos that followed, one of the suspects accidentally ran over the woman with their vehicle as they fled the scene.
The woman was identified as a 69-year-old from New Zealand who was visiting California with her husband. The couple had been shopping at Fashion Island when they were targeted by the robbers. Three to four gunshots were reportedly heard during the incident, but it is unclear whether anyone else was injured.
The suspects led authorities on a high-speed chase that reached speeds of up to 110 mph on the 105 Freeway in Los Angeles County. Two of the suspects eventually abandoned their vehicle and fled on foot in South Gate, while one was taken into custody shortly after jumping out of the car.
The Newport Beach Police Department confirmed that one person had been killed during the incident and urged residents to avoid the area as they continued their investigation. The identity of the third suspect is still unknown.
This tragic event has left many in shock, particularly given Fashion Island's reputation as a usually peaceful shopping center in Newport Beach. The community is known for its wealth and tranquility, making this incident all the more unexpected and disturbing.
The Newport Beach Fire Department arrived at the scene shortly after the incident and pronounced the woman dead on arrival. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with people running for cover as gunshots rang out.
Authorities are still investigating the motive behind this senseless act of violence. The Newport Beach Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward and contact them at (949) 644-3717.
