Surveillance footage captured a shocking scene outside Food 4 Less on Bristol Street in Santa Ana. A woman, appearing to offer help to an elderly man loading heavy water cases, instead launched a distraction scam that quickly escalated into violence. What began as a seemingly kind gesture ended up with a man seriously injured and a security guard hospitalized.
The Distraction Scam in Action
According to Santa Ana Police, the suspect—believed to be around 20 years old, approached the 83‑year‑old victim while he was preoccupied with grocery bags. She engaged him, placing a bracelet on his wrist and draping a necklace around his neck. These friendly actions are a known tactic: once the victim is distracted, the scammer can slip off valuable jewelry undetected. In this case, the suspect nabbed two gold chains worth more than $4,500.
Though taken by surprise, the man noted one piece, his gold cross, had stayed secure before the suspect sprinted away.
Security Guard Steps In—Then Steps Back
Footage shows a nearby security guard rushing to intercept the fleeing suspect’s vehicle, a white Mercedes-Benz SUV. His quick action disrupted the getaway, but the driver ignored the guard and accelerated, crushing his leg under the vehicle.
The result was devastating. The guard suffered severe leg trauma, including injuries to his toes. Medics had to amputate several of them. He’s now recovering, though faces a long road back to full mobility.
Police Paint a Bigger Picture
Investigators say this case fits a pattern of distraction scams targeting seniors in Southern California, often tied to organized groups like so‑called “Romani travelers.” These schemes typically involve gaining trust through offers of help or affection before coldly stealing valuables.
Santa Ana Police are urging the community to stay vigilant. They’ve released the suspect description: a woman in her early 20s, about 5′5″ tall, weighing around 140 lbs, wearing a gray shirt and blue jeans. The getaway car is described as a white Mercedes GLS 450 SUV.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Rubalcava at (714) 245‑8373.
Lessons from a Violent Encounter
Here’s what matters:
- Stay Alert – Offers of help from strangers in parking lots can be scams.
- Discard Distraction Tactics – If someone drapes jewelry on you, be suspicious—even if it feels polite.
- Look Out for the Elderly – Seniors are prime targets. Family and community members should check on loved ones.
- Respect Security Roles – The guard’s brave intervention highlights the dangers faced by those who step in.
This incident isn’t an isolated crime. It’s part of a wider, more troubling pattern where criminals exploit victims’ trust and rely on violence to escape/
What’s Next?
- Santa Ana Police continue investigating and are reviewing additional surveillance footage.
- Community outreach initiatives might increase, educating the public on spotting distraction tactics.
- Officers ask anyone with relevant information, whether about the suspect, vehicle, or similar incidents, to come forward.
Final Take
This wasn’t just a robbery, it was a premeditated, manipulative crime that left two people hurt: an elderly man robbed of his valuables, and a security guard injured for trying to help. It’s a reminder that simple acts of kindness can hide darker intentions. Staying alert, offering support to seniors, and reporting suspicious behavior are steps we can all take to protect our community.
