New Zealand Woman Killed in Attempted Robbery at Newport Beach Mall

Newport Beach, CA – A tragic incident unfolded at a Newport Beach shopping mall on Tuesday, resulting in the death of a 68-year-old woman from New Zealand. Patricia McKay was struck and killed by the suspects’ getaway car during an attempted robbery at Fashion Island, located near Santa Rosa Drive and Newport Center Drive.

The Newport Beach Police Department reported that McKay and her husband were visiting Southern California when the attempted robbery occurred. Witnesses stated that two men, one armed with a gun, attempted to rob two individuals walking outside the mall. During the chaos, McKay was dragged into the road and struck by a car driven by a third suspect. She tragically died at the scene.

According to the police, one of the robbers fired a handgun three times during the incident, but fortunately, no one was hit by the gunfire. The suspects then fled in a white sedan, prompting a police chase.

The pursuit ended when the suspects failed to yield during a traffic stop. One of the men exited the vehicle in Cypress but was eventually apprehended. The remaining two suspects abandoned the car in Los Angeles County, where they were later arrested. The individuals involved in the crime were identified as Leroyernest Joseph McCrary, 26, of Compton; Jaden Cunningham, 18, of Lancaster; and Malachi Eddward Darnell, 18, of Los Angeles.

Newport Beach Mayor Will O’Neil expressed his outrage over the incident, stating, “To hell with these guys. They came into our city, knowing that they were going to commit crime, and a woman is dead today because of it.”

The tragic death of Patricia McKay has sent shockwaves through both the local community and her home country of New Zealand. McKay was remembered as a loving wife and cherished friend. Her sudden and violent death has prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for justice.

The Newport Beach Police Department is continuing its investigation into the robbery and subsequent fatality. They are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward. The community’s cooperation is vital in ensuring that justice is served for Patricia McKay and her family.

The suspects are expected to face multiple charges, including murder, attempted robbery, and evading police. The case has drawn significant attention, with local authorities emphasizing the seriousness of the crime and their commitment to prosecuting those responsible to the fullest extent of the law.

The incident has also sparked discussions about public safety in Newport Beach and the need for increased security measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. As the investigation progresses, the community remains united in its support for McKay’s family and its determination to see justice done.