A man was robbed and beaten at his home in Lompoc early Saturday morning and the suspect is still on the loose.
According to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, the 65-year-old victim was at his home alone when the suspect rang the doorbell at the residence in the the Lasalle Canyon Road area.
The suspect stated he was with the Sheriff’s Office and needed to speak to the victim, the press release stated. The suspect then attacked the man, striking him times with a pistol and what the victim described as a night stick.
He attempted to fight the suspect but was overwhelmed and was forced into the bedroom. “The suspect demanded money and guns and said he would harm the victim’s family if his needs were not met,” the sheriff’s office stated.
The victim gave the suspect the money he had and then was bound by duct tape in the room.
After freeing himself, the man grabbed a baseball bat and struck the suspect. The suspect then grabbed the bat and then beat the man further, causing extensive injuries to his face and skull.
The victim was able to drive to a friend’s house for help, who then called 911. He remains in the hospital, but is expected to survive his injuries.
The description of the suspect is limited. He is 5’10” with a heavy build and was wearing dark clothing.
Authorities said it is unknown why the victim or his particular residence was targeted.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office by calling the non-emergency dispatch number at 805-683-2724. For anonymous tips, please call 805-681-4171 or go to the website here.
