Woman killed while shopping at Fashion Island in Newport Beach identified

Woman killed during robbery attempt at Fashion Island Mall in Newport Beach. Three suspects arrested after pursuit on 405 Freeway.

Tragedy struck at Fashion Island Mall in Newport Beach, California, as a woman lost her life during an attempted robbery on a Tuesday afternoon. The harrowing incident unfolded as a husband and wife were strolling near the Barnes & Noble store around 3:30 p.m. Suddenly, two male suspects approached them, intent on robbing the couple. A scuffle broke out, leading to the woman being forcibly taken into the parking lot where she was tragically struck by the suspects' white Toyota Camry, driven by a third accomplice.

In a swift and daring escape, the three suspects fled the scene in their vehicle, sparking a high-speed pursuit that traversed the northbound 405 Freeway and into Los Angeles County. The Newport Beach Police, along with assistance from neighboring law enforcement agencies such as the Huntington Beach Police, California Highway Patrol, and Orange County Sheriff's Department, sprang into action to apprehend the perpetrators.

The pursuit culminated in a dramatic showdown in Cypress, where one suspect attempted to flee on foot but was swiftly captured by responding officers. Meanwhile, the suspect vehicle continued its reckless journey into LA County, where the remaining two suspects abandoned the car and attempted to escape on foot, only to be apprehended by law enforcement.

The suspects, identified as Leroyernest Joseph McCrary, Jaden Cunningham, and Malachi Eddward Darnell, were swiftly taken into custody and charged with homicide and armed robbery. The victim, identified as 68-year-old Patricia McKay from New Zealand, was tragically struck down in the prime of her life. The investigation into this heinous crime is ongoing, as authorities work tirelessly to bring justice to the victim and her grieving family.