Phoenix, Arizona – A 71-year-old man is recovering in the hospital after being violently attacked while walking his family dog in a local park, an incident his daughter says could have turned fatal if not for the quick actions of nearby strangers.
What happened in the park
According to family members, Jeff Zimmerman was walking his dog through a park on the afternoon of December 13 when an unknown man approached him on a bicycle. The suspect reportedly got off the bike and began beating the elderly man without warning.
Two passers-by witnessed the assault and immediately intervened, pulling the attacker away and preventing further harm. Emergency responders transported Zimmerman to the hospital, where doctors classified his injuries as serious.
Suspect arrested, details withheld
Police later confirmed that an arrest had been made in connection with the attack. However, officials have not released the suspect’s name or additional details.
A spokesperson for the Phoenix Police Department indicated that more information may be shared once the investigation progresses.
Daughter calls father her “ride or die”
Zimmerman’s daughter, Kiera Zimmerman, provided an emotional update on her father’s condition, describing him as her “ride or die” and expressing gratitude to the strangers who stepped in to save his life…