Woman waiting for bus at Union Station in critical condition after attack

A woman is in critical condition after police said she was attacked by a homeless man Thursday morning while she was waiting at a bus stop at downtown Los Angeles’ Union Station.

The victim, described as a woman in her late 60s or early 70s, was struck at a bus stop at East Cesar Chavez Avenue and North Vignes Street, LAPD Officer Drake Madison said. Authorities said the attack was unprovoked.

Paramedics took the woman to a nearby hospital. Authorities told KTLA-TVshe is a nurse. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger said the woman works at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center.

A man was arrested around 6:45 a.m. not far from Union Station after the attack. Kerry Bell, 48, of Los Angeles was booked on charges of attempted murder. His bail has been set at $2 million, according to the LAPD.

In a statement, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials said that “Metro is appalled upon hearing of this incident. Metro’s highest concern is the safety of our customers, and along with our law enforcement partners, we have zero tolerance for crimes committed against our customers. Perpetrators will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted to the greatest extent of the law.”

Metro said with these types of incidents, riders can use Metro’s Transit Watch App, call 888-950-SAFE (7233) or text (213) 788-2777.

Barger called the attack “shocking and heart-breaking” in a statement and asked for a full investigation.

“It is unacceptable for Metro bus riders to be susceptible to this type of violence. Our essential workers, such as this county nurse, often take public transportation at unconventional times and can become easy prey for violent actors,” Barger said.

“Our county has an urgent need to work with public safety, mental health and transportation providers to create more safe and stable environments. Our essential workers are battling a pandemic and working long hours in tough conditions — at a minimum, they deserve that.”