Sheriff: 70-Year-Old Uses Rifle Butt To Stop Attack On Disabled, Senior Roommates

PALMDALE (CBSLA.com) —  The Los Angeles County Sherift's department says a 70-year-old man saved his senior and disabled roommates from a brutal attack by an acquaintance half their ages.

Officials said the suspect in the attack, 36-year-old John Tutson, was knocked unconscious by the 70-year-old when Tutson refused to release the 80-year-old man he allegedly had in a choke-hold.

The 70-year-old reportedly hit the suspect over the head with a rifle butt.

Authorities said the incident began Saturday around 10:30 p.m. when Tutson forced his way into the victims' residence (the 16700 block of Pearblossom Highway in Littlerock) yelling, cursing and challenging everyone to fight.

A 55-year-old female resident, who is in a wheelchair, ordered Tutson to leave. Tutson allegedly pulled her by the hair and threw her onto the floor. The suspect removed his clothing and then allegedly attacked the 80-year-old with punches before placing him in the choke-hold.

Palmdale Sheriff Station deputies were dispatched to the scene.

They learned Tutson had come to the house earlier in the day to borrow tools and to work on his vehicle. After some time, the suspect said he would sleep in his car and continue working on his vehicle the next day. Authorities did not say what prompted the man to return to attack his acquaintances.

The suspect was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Due to his head injury, officials said Tutson has not yet been booked into Palmdale Station.

The alleged victims were examined by Fire Department personnel and declined further evaluation or treatment.