Watch CBS News

Suspect In Custody After Center City Beating

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A 45-year-old man was seriously assaulted in Center City on Tuesday.

The incident happened outside the Municipal Services Building at 15th and JFK Boulevard around 12:15 p.m.

The victim was reportedly standing near the Frank Rizzo statue when the attacker walked up and punched him.

Police say the victim fell to the ground and hit his head, fracturing his skull.

Sources say a homeless man is under arrest and the victim is now in a coma.

A witness, Michael Avella, says, "They were pushing each other. I had my back to them to look for the bus and a couple minutes later he was laying on the ground, like he was out more or less."

SEPTA police were nearby and took a suspect into custody at 13th and Arch near Reading Terminal Market.

The victim was rushed to Hahnemann University Hospital unconscious.

Police continue to search for witnesses to the serious assault. They say that as of right now, the attack appears to have been random and the suspect is believed to be homeless.

He is expected to be charged with assault.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.