A woman in Venice, California, Mary Klein, recently shared her harrowing experience of being brutally attacked while walking along the Venice canals. The incident, which occurred on April 6, involved an assailant who ambushed Mary from behind as she was near her home around 10:30 p.m.
The attacker’s actions left Mary with severe injuries, including fractures to her jaw, broken teeth, a head gash, and multiple contusions. The assault resulted in her facing a long road to recovery, with the need for surgeries, mental health support, and physical therapy. As a single mother, home healthcare nurse, and local artist, Mary’s journey to healing is further complicated by her responsibilities as the caregiver to an elderly woman with ALS.
In a disturbing turn of events, Mary was not the only victim of the attacker along the Venice canals. Another woman, who remains unidentified, is currently in a coma due to a similar assault that took place on the same day. Following these egregious attacks, the suspect, identified as Anthony Jones, 29, was apprehended in San Diego on April 12.
Jones, described by authorities as a Black man of around 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing about 200 pounds, was believed to have targeted both victims with a violent, sexual motive. Surveillance footage captured his presence near the canals on the night of the attacks. Police have confirmed that Jones is facing two counts of attempted murder and is being held on a substantial bail amount.
Expressing relief at Jones’s arrest, Mary shared her empathy for the other victim and stressed the importance of stringent punishment for violent offenders. She commended the Los Angeles Police Department for their swift action in apprehending the suspect and emphasized the need for addressing mental health, drug abuse, and homelessness issues in the region.
While Mary harbors no hatred towards her attacker, she advocates for his incarceration for life. Her son, Robert Klein, echoes her sentiments, calling for accountability and justice for victims of violent crimes. As the case progresses towards prosecution, the community anticipates the authorities’ thorough investigation and legal proceedings in this challenging matter.
In response to the incidents, LAPD has pledged increased patrols around the Venice canals to enhance public safety and prevent further acts of violence. The community stands in solidarity with the victims and continues to support efforts to ensure their recovery and the pursuit of justice.