By SDCN Editor
Carlsbad, CA–Authorities are investigating an assault of an elderly man that left him critically injured at a shopping center parking lot Wednesday in the north county.
The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Patrick Ferncase of Vista, was arrested and booked at the Vista Detention Facility for attempted murder, elder abuse, and a parole hold.
Carlsbad police officers responded to a report, just after 10:30 a.m., of a white male adult assaulting another male in the shopping center parking lot located at 1700 Aviara Parkway.
Officers found a 68-year-old male unconscious suffering from head injuries. Carlsbad Fire Department personnel rendered medical aid and transported the victim to a local area hospital where he was admitted for care. Witnesses who remained on the scene assisted officers in locating the suspect.
The victim remains in the hospital in critical condition. There is no known relationship between the two men and there are no outstanding suspects.
The investigation is ongoing.
Investigators are seeking additional information from the public. Anyone with information about the incident should contact Detective Collier at (760) 931-2110, email Christopher.Collier@Carlsbadca.gov, or call Sergeant Willis at (760) 931-2139 or email at James.Willis@carlsbadca.gov.
Anonymous tips can be submitted at www.sdcrimestoppers.org.