Venice, California, was rocked by a horrific incident on April 6, when a woman, identified as Mary Klein, was brutally attacked along the canals. Walking near her home at around 10:30 p.m., Klein was ambushed by an assailant who left her with severe injuries, including a broken jaw and teeth, a head wound, and multiple bruises. The vicious assault has left Klein in a state of shock, with a long road to recovery ahead.
The victim, a single mother, healthcare nurse, and artist, faces numerous surgeries and the need for mental health support and physical therapy. As a full-time caregiver to an elderly woman with ALS, Klein is determined to recover swiftly. Unfortunately, she was one of two women attacked on that night, with the other victim currently in a coma.
In a development that brought some relief, the suspect, Anthony Jones, 29, was apprehended in San Diego late Thursday night. Described as a Black man, approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing about 200 pounds, Jones is believed to be transient. The attacks on both women were reported to have a “sexual element,” with surveillance footage capturing Jones in the vicinity of the canals.
Expressing gratitude for the police’s efforts and naming them “warriors” for their protection of the community, Klein called for justice and accountability for violent offenders. Her son, Robert Klein, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of harsh penalties for perpetrators. While Klein holds no hatred for the suspect, she believes he should face life imprisonment.
As the case moves forward with Jones facing charges of attempted murder, a GoFundMe page has been set up to assist Klein with medical expenses. The LAPD has pledged increased patrols around the Venice canals in response to the heinous attacks. The incident has underscored the urgent need to address mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness in Southern California, as the community grapples with the aftermath of such senseless violence.
The resilience and determination shown by Mary Klein in the face of this tragedy serve as a testament to her strength and the unwavering support of her loved ones and community. Through unity and decisive action, Venice stands together in the pursuit of justice and safety for all its residents.