LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has arrested a suspect in the violent assault of an elderly Sikh man, Harpal Singh, in North Hollywood. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell identified the suspect as Bo Richard Vitagliano, a 44-year-old unhoused man with a lengthy criminal record.
The attack occurred last Monday near the Sikh Gurdwara of LA, as Singh was out on a walk. According to police, the altercation began with an argument between Singh and Vitagliano. Witnesses reported hearing a commotion and then seeing both men swinging “metal objects” at each other. The assault continued even after Singh had fallen to the ground, with the suspect riding away on his bicycle after witnesses intervened.
Details of the Suspect and Investigation
Police used surveillance camera footage to identify and track down Vitagliano. He was arrested after officers spotted him with his bicycle on Lankershim Boulevard. Chief McDonnell described Vitagliano as having an extensive criminal history, including past charges for assault with a deadly weapon, narcotics, and various weapons offenses.
Despite the location of the attack near a place of worship and the victim’s Sikh identity, the LAPD is not investigating the incident as a hate crime. According to police, the attack appears to have been motivated by a dispute over property.
Victim’s Condition and Community Reaction
Harpal Singh, a retired college professor, remains in critical condition. He has undergone three surgeries to address broken facial bones and bleeding in his brain. His brother, Dr. Gurdial Singh Randhawa, said that Singh is in a coma and has been kept under sedation.
The Sikh community in Los Angeles has responded with calls for justice and increased security around gurdwaras. While they are grateful for the arrest, some community members and the Sikh Coalition have questioned why the attack is not being considered a hate crime, given the circumstances.