VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — A man is in critical condition after what police say was an unprovoked attack, in the parking lot of the Fairfield Shopping Center in Virginia Beach.
On Thursday, police confirmed the victim is a 62-year-old man.
They identified the suspect as 34-year-old Walter Martinez. He’s facing charges of felony aggravated malicious assault. Martinez was in court Thursday afternoon for a video arraignment, during which he was assigned a public defender. His next court date is scheduled for April 19.
The call came in just before 7 a.m. Wednesday. Police had a portion of the parking lot blocked off in front of the Food Lion.
A co-worker of the victim told 10 On Your Side’s KaMaria Braye that it was a random attack, which police confirmed in their investigation.
Police taped off the area around a company pickup truck. WAVY was asked to not show what company it is, until police have notified the victim’s family members about what happened. There was blood visible on the truck and surrounding area.
WAVY received cellphone video from a viewer of the emergency response. It shows the suspect in handcuffs, then wheeled away to an ambulance with a bag over his head. Police confirmed that it is a “spit bag”, which is used in situations where a detainee poses a risk of spitting at officers or others.
In police dispatch audio, EMS crews are heard talking about needing to sedate one of the people involved. Later, they’re heard talking about the suspect.
Shoppers said they are surprised to hear about this attack and the area is normally safe.
“It does, because I have kids and I come to the store a lot. Nobody wants to be in a situation where they gotta protect themselves coming to the grocery store. Yeah, it’s kind of crazy to hear something like that,” David Snead said.
“Yeah, I’m a bit surprised, but then, not. The world is changing.” “I still think it’s a pretty safe area,” added Bill Hinson.
We also learned the Food Lion manager witnessed the attack.
Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.
