Woman Dies on Christmas Day After College Campus Sledgehammer Attack

A California woman is dead after a man allegedly attacked her while she walked her dog at a Los Angeles college campus on Christmas Eve.

The victim, identified as an Asian woman who appeared to be in her early 60s, was collecting recyclables and walking with her dog at El Camino College in Torrance around 7 a.m. Sunday when a man attacked her with a sledgehammer, KTLA 5 reports.

A passerby near the college gym building spotted the victim bleeding from a head wound and called for help. First responders rushed the woman to a local hospital, where she died from her injuries on Christmas Day, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

After reviewing security footage, the campus police, assisted by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, identified the suspect as 40-year-old Jeffrey Davis. He’s been arrested and charged with murder.

“It’s devastating,” neighbor Leslie Andersen told KTLA 5. “It’s gut-wrenching. I’m still in shock. Our dogs became friends so they would play together and we would talk. Just the sweetest woman.”

It’s unclear what led to the attack. The victim’s name will not be publicly available until police notify the next of kin.

Davis remains behind bars in Torrance County, without bail.

Anyone with information regarding the case should contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.

The story is developing. Check back for updates.

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[Feature Photo: Shutterstock]