Killed Kiwi Tourist Patricia Mckay Fought Attackers: On Thursday, July 4, 2024, the world was shocked by the tragic news of Patricia McKay’s death. The 68-year-old New Zealand woman was visiting Newport Beach, California, with her husband Doug McKay when they were accosted by two armed men at the upscale Fashion Island mall.
Patricia McKay was fatally struck by the suspects’ fleeing car during the botched robbery attempt. She died at the scene, while her husband escaped uninjured. The McKay family released a heartbreaking statement, expressing their profound sadness and grief over the loss of their beloved wife, mother, and friend.
Patricia McKay was known as a doting grandmother by her neighbors. She was visiting family in the United States when the tragic incident occurred. The suspects, identified as Jaden Cunningham (18) of Lancaster, Malachi Eddward Darnell (18) of Los Angeles, and Leroyernest Joseph McCrary (26) of Compton, were arrested after a brief police chase.
The suspects approached the McKays and attempted to rob them at gunpoint. During the struggle, one of the suspects dragged Patricia McKay into the street, where she was struck and killed by the getaway car. The suspects fired three shots from a handgun during the robbery, but no one was hit by the gunfire.Newport Beach Mayor Will O’Neill condemned the suspects, calling them “thugs” and expressing his outrage at the “stunning, staggering” attack. He emphasized that Newport Beach is a safe community and that the mall’s owners have excellent security measures in place.
Doug McKay, Patricia’s husband, is a prominent businessman in Auckland, New Zealand. He served as the inaugural CEO of the amalgamated Auckland Council. The couple’s tragic story has resonated with people around the world, who have expressed their condolences and support for the McKay family during this difficult time.
Patricia McKay? Newport Beach Victim Identified
The incident has also sparked a conversation about the need for stricter gun control measures and improved security in public spaces. Many have called for action to prevent such senseless acts of violence from occurring in the future.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the McKay family has received an outpouring of love and support from their community in New Zealand and around the world. They have expressed their gratitude for the kind words and gestures, but have also emphasized the need for privacy as they grieve the loss of their beloved Patricia.
As the investigation into the incident continues, authorities have vowed to bring the suspects to justice and ensure that they are held accountable for their actions. The Newport Beach community has rallied together to support the McKay family and to honor Patricia’s memory.
The tragic death of Patricia McKay has left a profound impact on all who knew her and those who have heard her story. Her life was cut short by a senseless act of violence, but her memory will live on through the love and kindness she shared with others. As the world mourns her loss, we must come together to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future and to honor the memory of those whose lives have been taken too soon.
