West Seattle Crime Watch: Defiant attack victim, & more

| Crime | West Seattle news

Three West Seattle Crime Watch reports – a man attacked while walking home explains how he scared off his attackers (and declares his defiance); plus, a burglary and a car break-in, ahead:

From Craig:

On the night of Saturday, April 9th at approximatly 9:50pm, I was walking home, west on Holden St, after work headed toward 35th Ave. SW. As I approached the area of 32nd and Holden [map], I saw a group of 6 teenagers walking toward me on my side of the street. When I was walking by them, one of the younger males punched me in my face nearly knocking me to the ground. The rest of the group laughed as another kicked me in the stomach. As I tried to get away, I turned away from them and pulled out my pocket knife, which made them turn the other way.

I reported the incident to the police after I had walked the rest of the way home. An officer arrived at my house shortly after to record the few details I could give them, which were minimal. I just wanted to get the word out for everyone to be on watch. I walk that route frequently at all times of day and see many people walking their dogs or running in that area. I refuse to let this type of behavior stand in the community I love so very much.

From Jane:

A home in our neighborhood was hit on Thursday afternoon. The next-door neighbor reported seeing a small Asian man with a mask and gloves pounding on the door of the home that was hit. He went out to confront the man but he had slipped over the back fence. We’re not sure what the sequence of events was, but when the residents came home that late afternoon, they found that a computer and big screen TV had been taken. We’re located on 26th Avenue SW between Nevada and Adams [map].

And from Ken:

I am just e-mailing to report a car break-in at my In Laws’ house in North Admiral (45th & Massachusetts [map]). The window was broken and a GPS device was stolen.

One more note: If you haven’t taken the city’s Public Safety Survey yet, it’s still open – with questions about your neighborhood as well as your views of SPD. The survey starts here.

Bob April 10, 2011 (3:49 pm)

Just reporting prowlers on 46th between Oregon and Alaska. I caught them in my alley. Then 5 minutes later, walking South on 46th. They went into my neighbors yard, but ran away when she looked out the window. SPD was called.

Wayne April 10, 2011 (4:42 pm)

Craig, do you any type of description of these teenagers? If you do, could you share this information?

Maxie April 10, 2011 (4:50 pm)

Craig,
So glad you were not hurt, and good job pulling out your knife in defence.
It is disturbing that more and more kids think nothing of violence. I believe they have desensitized themselves, through whatever means, to the point of having no reguard for human life, let alone any amount of empathy for who they may harm. I have lived in West Seattle since ’87, and the violence has only increased. I too refuse to let this type of behavior stand.
I personally exersise my right to carry concealed. For now it is very easy to get a licence, just finger prints and a drivers licence down town at the Seattle Police Dept. You don’t have to give a reason at all.
Jane,
Way to watch out for your neighbor! Maybe they will do the same for you someday.
Ken,
Thanks for posting this. A lot of times, I think that all the break ins are only happening in the south end, when in reality, it is everywhere at all times of the day.
WSB,
Thank you for raising our awareness. You’re the BEST! YOU ROCK! YOU’RE SICK! (Or whatever the kids are saying these days) :-/

cmc April 10, 2011 (6:15 pm)

Bob, what is their description? Thanks! We’re your neighbor!

Maxie April 10, 2011 (6:36 pm)

I thought more about my comment about being prepared, as in Craig’s case of having a knike on him. I realize that people are not comfortable with guns and knives, but the point is that, as sorry as it is, the reality is that you should be ready with a plan to protect yourself at any time. My 80 year old mom, who lives by herself, does her twice a week walk around the park carrying a 9 iron. She has only had to use it on a dog one time, but it saved her a probable doctor visit at least. There are other deterrents when you feel vulnerable, like key-fob mace, whistles, cell phones in hand with 911 on speed dial with your finger on send, and when ever possible, don’t walk alone.
I know, it all seems so unnecessary. But…

WSGuy April 10, 2011 (7:21 pm)

This attack is pretty disturbing and does make you think about carrying something. After various car breaks-in and other robberies on my block, I’ve thought a bit about getting a taser, but haven’t yet bought one. I find it really disturbing when this kind of thing happens and the perps are not caught. I don’t understand why SPD couldn’t find a group of 6 teenagers walking on foot. How many police cars responded to this assault? It should have been 4-8, but was probably just 1. It would be interesting to follow up with SPD about response time on this and magnitude of the response.

sybil April 10, 2011 (7:33 pm)

So glad Craig wasn’t more seriously hurt that. And scary about the break-in, that house is right around the corner from us. Good reminder to be alert!

wsguy (the original) April 10, 2011 (8:23 pm)

WSguy (copy)

Craig called the police when he got home and “an officer arrived shortly”.

How do you know what the police response was to look for the group of attackers, Craig said he didn’t have many details, and you wanted 8 patrol cars to go to his house and then canvas the neighborhood? And an investigation of the police response?

Let’s not blame the police, they do a pretty good job given the resources – or lack thereof. Those cars have to come from other parts of the city which leaves them low on coverage…

Craig – glad you are all right!

The Original WSGUY (Blog Registered)

defenestrator April 10, 2011 (8:46 pm)

Craig,

Glad you’re OK… that’s uncomfortably close to our house, and I enjoy walking in that same area in the evenings. Makes me think about getting something to carry…

Rob April 10, 2011 (8:55 pm)

Glad your ok Craig. This is disturbing. You were 7 blocks or so from the West Seattle police station, and 3 from the new fire station. Holden is a major street, and there is a lot of police and other traffic, even at 10pm. An assault by a GANG of kids should be taken very seriously, as, that behavior will only escalate. I’m hoping SPD did take this more than 1 car serious. Remember the kid who was attacked and tortured for hours just a few blocks to the east? And the parents of these kids should be ready for the call from the hospital at best if people do start arming themselves. Oh, yeah, I’m sure they would say they were good boys who would never hurt anyone. Right. Six on one? They are cowards and garbage and there is no chance of rehabilitation. They will cost us all for the rest of their lives. I really hope you gave the police more info than you posted, and they are caught soon. For their sake.

casaboba April 10, 2011 (10:00 pm)

Ken, Sorry about your family’s theft. ANYTHING of value, left inside a car, visible through the window WILL get swiped. I can count 7 times in the last two years on my block.

argonautter April 10, 2011 (10:45 pm)

I’m disturbed by the number of people considering arming themselves in their own neighborhoods. This is not how communitys are strengthened. It is how they are torn apart by suspicion and fear. Instead, be outside: garden, go for a walk (with a dog?), be visible. Know your neighbors. If troublemakers know there are eyes on them, they WILL think twice about breaking the law.

onetime April 10, 2011 (11:25 pm)

Argonautter – I agree with you but thugs will also think twice if you show in attitude and force that you are prepared to defend yourself. Glad you are ok, Craig. because even if you had called 911 from the street, it still would have taken the police a few minutes to get to you and those kids could have harmed you further.

Ray Carter April 10, 2011 (11:55 pm)

Taking prudent precautions that fit your moral/ethical structure is anything from tearing apart a community.

If your ethos does not permit you to take steps to prepare for misfortune (the social equivalent to keeping a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, just in case), whether that be a lawfully carried knife, firearm, pepper spray or other aggression-deterrence device – it’s certainly your right to refrain.

But for those of us *past* the phase of believing that everyone is full of sunshine and happy thoughts if but properly addressed, and similarly past the merry myth of youthful invulnerability – we may hold somewhat different views.

The Seattle area is blessed with a wide variety of martial arts studios (many of whom include training in the use of edged weapons) and firearms schools with nationally known instructors offering classes for both the general public and focused specifically on providing an affirming environment for the beginning female student, including an excellent pepper spray instruction course offered by the Firearms Academy of Seattle.

Should you choose to lawfully exercise your right to be prepared for lifes less fortunate situations, if you have the means, I strongly suggest taking advantage of these resources.

If troublemakers know that there is an ever-rising chance that random assault will result in bad results…odds are they will find less risky hobbies.

And those that don’t? Keep throwing the dice, and eventually – you lose. And that’s only your own fault.

R U Kidding April 10, 2011 (11:57 pm)

I live in the neighborhood Craig was walking through.

Hence, in my MANY posts before, SPD needs to be SEEN in our neighborhoods. Geez guys, just change the direction you drive from the precinct. Make a couple of extra turns.

To the little MFers who attacked an innocent person, I fear for you on the day you try that with many people I know who are so fed up with this crap: All I can reiterate is: “Say hello to my little friend.”

Craig, remain vigilant in remembering anything and everything you can about them.

Helen F April 11, 2011 (6:49 am)

Helen F April 11, 2011 (7:00 am)

I also live in the neighborhood of Holden and 35th and I am a public school teacher. I have educated hundreds of SPS children over the years. It is a sad but very real statistic that a few of my beloved children – a small handful- will grow up to become law breaking citizens who harm others and create a strain on our community. In my opinion, the answer is NOT concealed weopens, a response of 10 police cars to a crime scene many minutes AFTER the crime has taken place nor is it hiding in our homes. We need to finance and support public education to empower children with a solid foundation of knowledge to go forth into the world and be productive. We need to fund social services to support struggling parents who are worried about getting their family’s next meal on the table and are unsure how to raise their children. Don’t you remember all the people in your neighborhood when you were a child who merely recognized you and knew your business as a teenager…much to your chagrin at times? Get outside and know your neighbors. At risk of sounding SUPER-CLICHE, thank you Hillary – It takes a village….and not a firearm!!!

samson April 11, 2011 (7:17 am)

Time out,

what about teenagers’ curfews?? I believe there is curfew law for not allowing kids to be hanging out in night time? Parents – where are your discipline??

I am not pointing at the parents who have their kids at home which means they are good and teach them hard way for their lives to grow into right path. BUT parents for these teenagers are so lackly parenting in life, that means the next generation would be the worst one for teenagers’ kids if they have or not…

CURFEW needs to be established… I will bring my rottweiler and have him to bark at them!!! I always look out for group of teenagers, I will go other side or get the weapon out and they will see your weapon…

Craig, i am really glad that you are not on the ground suffering. Weapon saved your life.. High five! Darn, SPD needs more details, argh…

Teenagers, you might read this or not: your ass will be busted one day with alot of karmas going around. many eyes are watching you and once the words come out and the karma comes to you not our community. where are you coming from! knock your head and figure out what you DID wrong! dont you have a life!!

SPD,

Concerned Citizen April 11, 2011 (7:33 am)

Craig that is so scary … I just moved from that neighborhood,lived their almost 50 years, Loved it, sure there were problems on few occasions. I hate to know their are “teen” thugs walking the neighborhoods!

The Police Station may be at the bottom of Holden, but the police officers are not at the station that late at night! They are in their patrol cars. The station is locked! Too bad but that can be blamed on the economic factors for sure!!!!

Maxie April 11, 2011 (8:12 am)

Samson,
Some of these kids, including my own, absolutely will not obey a parents or anybody elses authority. Outside of actually barring the windows and locking them in their room, which would be seen as child abuse by CPS, there is no way of enforcing a curfew. My wife and I tried everything in the book to guide our teen through this crap with insentives and counselors and even more. We have a basically healthy home environment, and he still chose instant self gratification and peer approval and drugs over common sense. My belief is that these kids somehow think that they are entitled to what ever suits their fancy, and they get off on acting like gang bangers. “It’s cool to be bad.” If you have been blessed with an obedient, mature child that stays home when they are asked to, then you are the lucky ones.
I guess what I am saying is: Stop blaming parents for the kids actions in every case. That is the problem! We as a society need to look at the facts. We need to hold the kids responsible and accountable for their own actions, instead of excusing them for this reason or that, and thus allowing them to think that violence is accepted, or something that they can get away with. They need to feel the consequences for their own actions to change their ways. Like jail time.
Argonautter,
Sunshine and flowers…………..nevermind.

HolyKow April 11, 2011 (10:48 am)

So here it my 2 cents on this whole carry V not carry RE weapons of various types:

If you wanna responsibly protect yourself with edged weapons or firearms and do so in a legal responsible fashion, good on ya, please take a class on how to do so safely and responsibly.

If you do not want to carry any weapons and you wanna to deal with a violent threat to your existence by reciting poetry and plead for your life and combat fear and violence with a dazzling display of sunshine and rainbows, also your choice.

Neither side is wrong (so long as all legal guidelines are observed) and people on both sides can be right if what they do is in line with what they believe.

You can both be right about what is best for you and we should all be tolerant of others’ process in how they choose to (or not) defend themselves.

Let’s just all try to continue to watch our for our neighbors and do that which is good.

But this much should hold true no matter who you are or which path you choose, know what you would do and do it when the time comes weather it be fight or flight. Hesitation on either path can be disastrous.

amalia April 11, 2011 (11:04 am)

Now I have to worry walking down the street in my neighborhood? Pepper spray, call 911, and get the criminals caught.

Terrible. Craig, I’d like a description so that I don’t treat EVERY kid like a potential criminal when I’m out. Otherwise, that’s what I’m feeling inclined to do.

Concerned Parent April 11, 2011 (12:58 pm)

Maxie I feel your pain … I have known wonderful parents with “rebels” for kids! It is so hard! And again you are right! DSHS and the JQ Public go after parents if they try to keep their child in line! You can’t even give a child a swat on the behind without someone threatening to call the police on you! “You must always say, … I could go on and on ….

foy boy t April 11, 2011 (1:16 pm)

It sound like we need to get something going like the gaurding Angels, Or get the dads together and start walking around and take thier hood back. The police can only do so much. Anymore these days if a cop even looks a somebody crooked people will cry foul. So lets help the cops clean up the hood. We can knock some heads with out loseing our job.

jack fisher April 13, 2011 (6:43 pm)

Bring back corporal punishment in the scools. Use it GENEROUSLY its the only thing these snot nosed punks will understand……THWACKKKK !!!!!

phil dirt April 14, 2011 (1:41 pm)

I’m 68 years old and it’s difficult for me to out run trouble, which I would much prefer to do. Therefore, I legally carry a concealed .45 and know very well how to use it. I advise any of you who fear for your safety to do the same. Go downtown and apply for your license. If you don’t know how and when to use a gun in self defense, you owe it to yourself and your family to learn. We are witnessing the beginnings of a breakdown in society, and things, I believe, are going to get worse before they get better. Oh, and bye the way, both Helen F and Hillary need to get a clue.

Craig April 14, 2011 (11:31 pm)

Hi to all-
I was the one recently assaulted on Holden St.
First, the description of the teenagers I can give you, is this; there were 6 teenagers. 5 boys, 1 girl. The girl was light skinned, dark hair, approximately 5’4″, listening to headphones, her hair pulled back tight into a bun, wearing khaki capri’s. There were 4 black males, and a mixed race male in the group, as well. The male that struck me in the face was approximately 17 years of age, 5’9″, thin build, black hair, brown eyes, wearing a black baseball cap, black hooded sweatshirt and black shoes. Another male was wearing long khaki shorts, white t shirt, black hooded sweatshirt and black shoes.
I really dislike giving such a vague description but, hopefully, the small details will lead to the bigger picture.
I appreciate everyone’s concern and am putting this information out there, not in expectations of apprehending the individuals, but to make people aware of this isolated incident to further the safety and protection of my community.
I would be saddened to hear of any further violence.
I, frequently, see people out running alone in this neighborhood, walking their dogs or out with their children on nice nights. Please, be safe and take proper precautions to protect yourself, no matter your choice of defense.
Peace & Blessings.

Craig April 15, 2011 (12:36 am)

More to come tomorrow…

resident3 April 19, 2011 (10:40 pm)

do the principals at the local schools know about this? to inform their staff to keep ears open, just in case these kids or any of their buddies talk about it on campus? if any readers have connections to teachers please tell them to keep an ear out!

Newbie April 22, 2011 (3:42 pm)

http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/recordgirl/New%20west%20Seattle%20blog/3df70664.jpg
Photo of two young men knocking on doors looking in windows as we were walking our dog. We felt it was necessary to take a photo. They confronted us, pretended to be lost than disappeared. Just an FYI. We r new to this neighborhood and have already had our car burglarized. Wish police would be more proactive

Resident3 April 25, 2011 (3:36 pm)

Newbie-
What time of the day was this?

Newbie April 29, 2011 (11:28 pm)

Hello, it was in the afternoon around 3 or 4 I would say. This is regarding the photo.
Our car got burglarized at night though. Since then we have installed cameras, all sorts of alarms as a precaution.
We love the neighborhood and the people of west seattle. We just felt it was necessary to take action after we learned our lesson I must say. Thanks to all who contribute to the site…

Sorry, comment time is over.