In a shocking incident that took place inside a Kroger store in DeKalb County, an 80-year-old man was randomly attacked while shopping for groceries. The victim, Felix Diesel, who was visiting family in Atlanta, had a frightening encounter in the produce department of the Kroger store located at the intersection of Lavista and North Druid Hills Roads. Despite his age, Diesel fought back against his attacker, sustaining physical injuries in the process, but managed to leave the store without needing hospitalization. He now calls for action to apprehend his assailant and improve safety measures at the grocery store.
The Unexpected Attack
The incident occurred around lunchtime on a Thursday, as Diesel was picking up groceries in the produce section of the store. He recalls that the attack began without any warning when he turned around and was struck in the face with a can of soda. The force of the blow left him with a visible bump on his head and a sense of shock from the unprovoked assault. Diesel described the attack as something that he continues to replay in his mind, noting that while his physical wounds are healing, the emotional and mental impact lingers.
“I have a hard time going to sleep because I’m reviewing it,” Diesel said, explaining the distress he feels following the attack. He emphasized that while bruises and bumps will eventually fade, the psychological effects of the attack remain. He remains deeply troubled by the random nature of the incident, stating that he was simply shopping for bananas when he was unexpectedly assaulted.
Diesel Fights Back
Despite the initial shock, Diesel did not allow himself to become a helpless victim. According to the police report from DeKalb County, after being hit in the face with the can of soda, Diesel ran toward his attacker, fighting back against the assault. The suspect responded by throwing multiple items at Diesel, as well as physically attacking him with punches and kicks. Diesel defended himself as best he could during the encounter.
An employee witnessed the confrontation and intervened, but instead of offering assistance, both Diesel and the attacker were told to leave the store. The attacker fled the scene before the situation could escalate further. Diesel, still dazed from the unexpected attack, refused to leave initially, stating, “I’m not getting out of the store. I was just attacked.” He later left the premises after the attacker had disappeared, shaken but determined not to let the incident go unanswered.
Kroger Responds
Following the incident, Kroger released a statement to FOX 5 News addressing the concerns raised by Diesel and others regarding safety in their stores. The company stated that “the safety and security of our customers and associates is our top priority.” Kroger also emphasized that they are cooperating with local law enforcement in the investigation, which remains ongoing.
Kroger did not, however, provide any details on the specific security measures in place at the store or what additional steps would be taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Diesel is now calling for increased security at the Kroger location, expressing concerns that without further action, something worse could happen.
“Something tragic is going to happen there,” Diesel warned, highlighting the need for security improvements at the store. He feels fortunate that he was able to overcome the attack and believes that his assailant needs to be apprehended and receive medical and mental help.
No Arrests Made Yet
As of now, the DeKalb County Police Department has not made any arrests related to the incident. The attack was captured on the store’s surveillance cameras, but neither Kroger nor the police have released the footage to the public. Diesel remains hopeful that the video evidence will eventually lead to the identification and arrest of his attacker.
Diesel, despite his advanced age, is determined to see justice served. He believes that his assailant poses a danger to others and should not be allowed to roam free. While he did not require medical attention following the incident, the emotional scars from the assault are still present. He continues to urge law enforcement and store management to take action to prevent future attacks and ensure the safety of all shoppers.
Moving Forward
The incident has left many questions unanswered, particularly regarding the safety protocols in place at the Kroger store. Diesel’s story serves as a reminder that violence can happen unexpectedly, even in familiar and seemingly safe locations. He has expressed a desire for greater security presence at grocery stores and other public places to prevent such incidents from recurring.
The investigation into the attack continues, and Diesel remains in shock over the randomness of the event. While he is healing physically, the experience has left him shaken and calling for change. As more details emerge, the public will be watching closely to see how both the police and Kroger handle the situation moving forward.