Elderly Hastings couple beaten and robbed

St Johns County Sheriff David B Shoar is asking Historic City News readers for their help in identifying the criminal who robbed and beat an elderly Hastings couple in their West Stanton Street home last night, shortly before 10:00 p.m.

The 74-year old couple, who lives in the 200 block of West Stanton Street, were awakened by a loud bang at the back door. The female victim went to investigate the noise; but she was knocked to the floor when the robber kicked the door open.

When the woman told the robber that she did not have any money, he demanded to know where her husband was. She told the robber that her husband was asleep.

According to the incident report, the robber ran to the bedroom and beat the male victim when he could not produce any money. When the robber re-appeared, he grabbed a very small amount of cash and fled the residence.

Emergency medical personnel responded and treated the victims at the scene. They refused transportation to the hospital, the report says.

The home invader was described as a black male, unknown age, about 6’ tall with a thin build.

He was wearing a black jogger’s type jacket, black pants and a black ski mask over his face.

Anyone with information concerning this crime is asked to contact Detective Gene Tolbert at the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office by calling (904) 824-8304. You can remain anonymous and possibly be eligible for a cash reward by calling CrimeStoppers of Northeast Florida at 1-888-277-TIPS (8477).