Therese Garcia, 71, is in the hospital recovering from severe injuries after being brutally assaulted with a metal baseball bat by a man she had welcomed into her Crestline, California, home. The alleged attacker, Erik Eduardo Navarro, 26, approached Garcia last month claiming he had been robbed and needed assistance before a job interview.
Garcia told NBC Los Angeles that she took pity on Navarro, offering him food and shelter for six days. However, her daughter, Abbie, told CBS News that Navarro's demeanor changed, becoming more demanding and unhelpful. When Garcia asked Navarro to leave, he reportedly waited until she fell asleep on the couch before initiating the assault.
According to Garcia's family, Navarro beat her for hours, pausing only when she lost consciousness and resuming his attack when she regained it. He allegedly fled the scene with Garcia's phone, credit cards, and e-bike.
Deputies from the San Bernardino Sheriff's Office were alerted by neighbors who requested a welfare check. Upon arrival on August 25, they found Garcia with multiple injuries, including lacerations and swelling that impaired her vision. Her family believes she might have died from blood loss if not for the neighbors' intervention.
Garcia has been treated for a traumatic brain injury, a brain bleed, and deep lacerations requiring extensive stitching. She has also suffered multiple broken bones in her arm, hands, and face. While her condition has stabilized and she has begun to take small steps, she continues to experience significant pain, dizziness, and the effects of her brain injury.
Garcia does not have health insurance, and her family has started an online fundraiser to assist with her medical expenses. Her daughter Abbie noted that Garcia may require facial surgery once swelling subsides and could need extensive in-home care. The family is navigating her care while managing their own responsibilities.
Authorities are actively searching for Navarro. Abbie expressed concern that he may commit further violence if not apprehended, stating that her mother's kindness was met with unimaginable brutality.
Anyone with information regarding Navarro's whereabouts is urged to contact the San Bernardino Sheriff's Office Twin Peaks station at (909) 336-0660.