BOSTON — A local man is facing serious charges after allegedly attacking his elderly neighbor over a mix-up involving a delivered package, according to the Suffolk District Attorney’s Office. Khalil Muhammad, 29, was charged with assault and battery on a person aged 60 or older, as well as unarmed robbery.
The incident occurred on December 22, when police received reports of an assault in progress at an apartment on Cummins Highway. Witnesses described a violent confrontation where the suspect was said to have beaten a 77-year-old man and taken his cellphone.
Upon arrival, officers found the elderly victim with severe injuries, including swollen eyes and a laceration beneath one eye. He was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Muhammad told police that the victim had accused him of stealing a package and confronted him in his apartment.
According to police, the victim eventually recounted that his Amazon package had been mistakenly delivered to Muhammad’s residence. When he went to retrieve it, Muhammad allegedly struck him in the face and forcibly removed the victim’s $700 Motorola phone. The victim attempted to escape to his own apartment, but Muhammad reportedly followed him and continued the assault.
Neighbors expressed shock over the violence. Rhonda McElroy, who witnessed the aftermath, described seeing the elderly man in distress, stating, “His whole face was swollen, his eyes were basically shut.” McElroy was the one who called 911, recognizing the gravity of the situation.
Muhammad’s criminal history raises further concerns; records show he has prior convictions for violent offenses in both Massachusetts and New York since 2015. Currently, he has an open case in East Boston involving similar charges, including assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and assault on a police officer. He is also on probation in connection with two cases out of Dorchester.
In court last week, a judge revoked Muhammad’s bail related to the East Boston case, leading to his detention for probation violations. He is scheduled to return to court on January 22 for a pre-trial hearing.
The events serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by elderly individuals and the seriousness of violent crime. As the legal proceedings unfold, the local community is left reflecting on the impact of such incidents amidst ongoing concerns about safety.