SAN FRANCISCO—The vicious beating of a homeless man in San Francisco’s Tenderloin neighborhood has sparked a police search for a suspect who is still at large.
In an effort to bring the assailant to justice, footage of the beating has been made public.
WARNING: The video below contains graphic content.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfvxaoNivDA
In the video, the suspect, wearing a bright blue shirt, approaches the homeless man that has since been identified as a regular transient named “Robert.” As the suspect approaches Robert, a metal pipe becomes visible in the assailant’s hand, one he swings at Robert’s skull with such force that he is knocked completely out of his chair.
The blow was so severe that the pipe flew from the suspect’s hand before he abruptly flees the scene. Robert was then rushed to San Francisco General Hospital for treatment. He is reportedly responsive to both doctors and visitors.
Prior to the attack, the suspect is seen on camera walking past Robert several times. Authorities believe the beating was premeditated. The SFPD is asking for the public’s help in identifying the man who attacked Robert, who locals have described as friendly and polite.
Anyone who can help identify the suspect is urged to contact the the San Francisco Police Department’s anonymous tip line at (415) 575-4444 or text a tip to TIP411 with SFPD at the beginning of the message.
