Tragedy Strikes at Fashion Island Mall in Newport Beach: New Zealand Tourist Killed in Robbery Attempt

A serene summer day at the upscale Fashion Island mall in Newport Beach turned into chaos as a tragic incident unfolded, resulting in the death of a New Zealand tourist in a botched robbery.

The victim, identified as Patricia McKay, 68, was visiting from New Zealand and was with her husband near the Barnes & Noble bookstore when two assailants approached them, initiating a violent confrontation.

Sgt. Steven Oberon of the Newport Beach Police Department stated that during the robbery attempt, a scuffle broke out, leading to McKay being dragged into a parking lot where she was fatally run over by a white Toyota Camry driven by a third suspect. Fortunately, no one was hit by the gunfire that was exchanged during the altercation.

Following the tragic event, a pursuit of the suspects ensued, spanning across Los Angeles County. The chase, captured by television news helicopters, depicted the high-speed escape, reaching up to 110 mph on the 105 Freeway, with dramatic maneuvers and suspects fleeing in different locations.

The suspects, identified as Leroyernest Joseph McCrary from Compton, Jaden Cunningham from Lancaster, and Malachi Edward Darnell from Los Angeles, were apprehended and booked on charges of homicide, robbery with a firearm, and conspiracy.

The violent episode, occurring in the typically peaceful Fashion Island shopping center overlooking the ocean in Newport Beach, sent shockwaves through the community and led to a swift response from law enforcement and emergency services.

Witnesses described the harrowing situation as a ‘hullabaloo,’ highlighting the rarity of such incidents in the affluent area. Mayor Will O’Neill expressed his dismay over the tragedy, emphasizing the safety and peace usually associated with Fashion Island.

The City News Service and various local authorities collaborated in investigating the crime, urging residents to exercise caution within the vicinity as the aftermath unfolded.