Family relieved after suspect arrested in beating of beloved grandmother in San Francisco
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- San Francisco police have made an arrest in the brutal beating of a beloved 88-year-old grandmother. The crime happened earlier this month in the city's Visitacion Valley neighborhood.
The family of Yik Oi Huang reacted to word an arrest in her brutal beating and robbery on Saturday.
"It is mixed emotions... there certainly is relief that if there is someone (arrested) who caused harm to their grandma, that this person might be able to cause harm to another person," said family spokesperson Cynthia Choi.
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Police reports 18-year-old Keonte Gathron was arrested Saturday in San Francisco after committing another robbery. Details of that crime are unclear.
Police believe Gathron beat Huang the morning of Jan. 8 in a park in Visitacion Valley, before breaking into her home across the street.
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"I'm glad a suspect was apprehended, this is a heinous crime and doing this to a senior is unheard of," said San Francisco Supervisor Shamann Walton.
Huang's family says she remains in critical condition, with a shattered face along with a broken spine, hand and ribs.
The crime shook the community and a safety forum was held on Saturday. Police assured neighbors they've increased patrols.
"Anybody who comes to our community to harm a senior or child, we're gonna find them," Walton added.
Huang's family says there are signs she is improving.
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"She's reacting to family members on their visits, a slight improvement, they're very hopeful what they are seeing," Cynthia Choi added.
Gathron is being held in the San Francisco County Jail. He denied an interview request by ABC7 News on Sunday.
Although an arrest has been made if you have any information regarding this incident, please contact the San Francisco Police Department at 415-575-4444 or Text a Tip to TIP411 and begin the text message with SFPD. You may remain anonymous.
Go here if you'd like to contribute to a GoFundMe to raise money for the victim's medical bills if no reward is collected
