An elderly woman who was violently assaulted on a city bus earlier this week is recovering from her injuries and remains determined not to let fear change her daily routine, her family says.
The attack, captured on surveillance footage from inside the bus, shows a man suddenly lunging at the woman as she sat near a window. The assailant shoved her backward before repeatedly striking her, leaving her with significant facial injuries. Investigators stated that her eyes were noticeably swollen and her nose was broken during the assault.
Passengers seated farther down the aisle did not appear to realize what was happening until the commotion was already underway. The driver pulled over and radioed for assistance as the attacker fled before authorities arrived.
The victim’s grandson said the family was shaken after watching the footage, describing the moment as “heart-stopping and difficult to process.” He expressed deep concern for his grandmother’s safety but also admiration for her resilience.
“She’s bruised, and she’s hurting, but she refuses to give up the independence that riding the bus gives her,” he said. “She said she’s not going to let one horrible moment take away the life she’s built.”
Transit officials confirmed they are cooperating fully with police and reviewing security protocols. They emphasized that cameras on all buses are active and that patrol presence may be increased along routes serving vulnerable riders.
“Incidents like this are rare but devastating,” a transit spokesperson noted. “We want every rider—especially our seniors—to feel protected and supported.”
Neighbors familiar with the woman described her as quiet, friendly, and known for her daily trips to local shops. Several expressed outrage at the attack and called for stronger measures to safeguard older citizens who rely on public transit.
Meanwhile, detectives are continuing their search for the suspect, urging anyone with information to contact the department’s tip line.
Despite the trauma, the woman’s grandson said her resolve has only strengthened.
“She told me, ‘I’m not done living my life,’” he said. “And she meant it.”