LOS ANGELES, CA – A young man is recovering after being beaten by a group of teenagers in a broad daylight attack that took place on a busy Los Angeles street last month. Authorities have arrested two suspects in connection with the incident, while the search continues for others involved.
The attack occurred at the intersection of San Vicente Boulevard and Carrillo Drive on Saturday, February 22. Maurice Benaim, the victim, said he was driving through the intersection when he encountered a large group of teenagers riding bicycles, reportedly taking up three lanes of traffic. In an effort to avoid a collision, Benaim honked his horn. The group, he said, interpreted the gesture as hostile and began kicking the taillight of his car.
“I got out of the car to see what was going on, and the next thing I know, I’m surrounded,” Benaim recalled. “I’m trying to focus on not passing out in the middle of the road and trying to protect my head.”
What followed was a violent group assault. Benaim said he was punched and kicked repeatedly by as many as 30 teens. He was eventually pulled to safety by two bystanders who intervened, prompting the group to flee. In addition to injuries, Benaim’s vehicle was also damaged during the altercation.
Emergency responders treated Benaim at the scene, and he is now recovering from his injuries. His mother, Yasmile Benaim, expressed deep anguish over the attack. “They don’t value life,” she said. “I wouldn’t even leave an animal in the middle of the street like how they left my son.”
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that two teenagers have been arrested following anonymous tips. Their identities have not been disclosed due to their age. Investigators continue to review surveillance footage and gather information to identify additional suspects.
The incident is part of a string of recent confrontations in the city involving large groups of young bicyclists, though police have not said whether this case is connected to similar past events. Benaim and his mother were clear in stating they do not believe the assault was motivated by race or personal bias. “We don’t think it was a hate crime,” Benaim said. “This could’ve happened to anyone.”
Despite the trauma, Benaim expressed empathy toward his attackers, particularly the younger teens involved. “I’m sure these kids started biking because they wanted to be a BMX star or something like that,” he said. “I see it as a waste of youth and a waste of potential.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident or those involved to come forward.
