The woman who was violently attacked at a Pasadena Metro station and dragged onto the 210 Freeway faces “long-term disfigurement,” officials said Tuesday.
The victim was at the Allen Metro station near Pasadena City College early Wednesday morning when a man approached her and suddenly punched her in the face, authorities said.
He allegedly continued to beat her until she fell to the ground, at which point he began banging her head against the platform. He then pushed her onto the railroad tracks and dragged her across a concrete highway median and into the rideshare lane of the 210 Freeway, authorities said.
She then escaped from her attacker. The woman was taken to hospital after the attack.
She was released with a broken nose and multiple cuts that required staples and stitches, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department told The Times in a statement Tuesday. The department said her injuries to her head and face were so severe that they “have the potential to cause long-term disfigurement.”
A spokesman said the victim “had difficulty walking without the help of her family”.
Juan Pablo Flores, 33, was arrested around 5:45 a.m. Wednesday shortly after the attack, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office said Monday.
Flores was charged with attempted murder and intentional injury and is being held in lieu of $2 million bail. If convicted, he could face life in prison.
“Our hearts go out to the victim and her loved ones as she begins her journey to recovery after this horrific attack,” Los Angeles County police said. Atty. George Gascón.
“No one should have to endure this kind of cruelty,” he said. “Everyone should be able to go about their day without fear for their safety. We will not tolerate violence in our transportation system and will continue to hold those responsible accountable full responsibility for their actions.
Allen Station is operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority and is located on the agency’s A Line.
