81-Year-Old NYC Woman Randomly Punched, Remains Undeterred in Daily Walks

Despite suffering a concussion and facial injuries, an 81-year-old New York City woman is determined to continue her daily walks with her dog after being randomly punched in an unprovoked assault.

In a shocking and disturbing incident that has raised concerns about safety in the Big Apple, an 81-year-old woman was randomly punched in the side of the head by a stranger while walking her dog on the Upper West Side of Manhattan on Friday evening.

Identified only as Gloria, the victim shared her ordeal exclusively with FOX 5's Duarte Geraldino, recounting the terrifying experience.

81-Year-Old NYC Woman Randomly Punched, Remains Undeterred in Daily Walks

"I don't remember much," said Gloria, who suffered bruises to her face and neck and was hospitalized following the attack. "That's the scary part, [it happened] in front of my building."

Surveillance footage obtained by FOX 5 captures the moment Gloria was attacked. As she walked her dog near W. 66th Street and Amsterdam Avenue at around 7 p.m., a man dressed in black can be seen approaching her from behind.

81-Year-Old NYC Woman Randomly Punched, Remains Undeterred in Daily Walks

The man initially walks past Gloria, appearing to say something to her, before turning around and striding back towards her. Without warning, he swings and punches Gloria in the face, causing her to stumble and fall to the ground.

Despite the severity of the attack, Gloria miraculously escaped serious injury. "I feel lucky to be alive," she told FOX 5. "My neck was almost as fat as my face."

81-Year-Old NYC Woman Randomly Punched, Remains Undeterred in Daily Walks

Despite the trauma she endured, Gloria remains resolute in her daily routine. "I'm not going to hide in my apartment," she said. "[I'll] continue to walk my dog outside."

The NYPD is actively investigating the incident, which has sparked outrage and fear among residents. It comes amid a series of recent violent assaults in the city, including several cases where young women were punched in the face or head by strangers while walking in public.

81-Year-Old NYC Woman Randomly Punched, Remains Undeterred in Daily Walks

In March, several victims took to social media to share their harrowing experiences, including TikTok user Olivia Brand, who was punched unprovoked while walking on a sidewalk. "He goes, 'Sorry!' And then punches me in the head," she recalled.

Such incidents have raised concerns about the safety of individuals, especially the elderly, in New York City. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or crimes.

81-Year-Old NYC Woman Randomly Punched, Remains Undeterred in Daily Walks

The attack on Gloria has left an imprint on her memory, but it has not broken her spirit. She remains unwavering in her determination to live her life fully, despite the adversity she has faced. "I'm not going to let this stop me," she said.