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LONG BEACH, Calif. () — A Long Beach ice cream vendor is recovering from serious injuries after he says he was assaulted while working near Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier on the 4th of July, leaving him unable to work and support his family during his recovery.
Eliu Ramirez said he suffered multiple injuries in the attack.
“Nose broken, and I have a cheekbone shattered,” Ramirez told Eyewitness News in Spanish. He also said he has damage in his eye, causing him to wear glasses.
Ramirez, who said he has worked as a street food vendor for the past 16 years, said he was selling near the pier when someone approached him claiming to own the beach and told him to leave.
Police, who were present, said he did not need to leave.
About 10 minutes later, Ramirez said another person approached him and said “the boss” wanted him to leave. Ramirez said he again refused. A short time later, he said a third individual approached him and punched him in the face.
“Of course, I have fear. I’m scared,” Ramirez said. He said he’s scared because the person they call “El Patron” must have power and Ramirez is easy to find.
“I think it’s very sad, especially if someone’s trying to make a living, an honest living, and I grew up here for 40+ years and they’re part of the community,” said Brian Lamp of Yorba Linda.
As the primary earner for his family, Ramirez said he is unable to work while recovering from his injuries.
“I want to give thanks to the community who’s helping me and supporting me because I feel appreciated,” Ramirez said.
Ramirez said he is grateful for the community support and fundraising efforts on his behalf. A GoFundMe for Ramirez has raised more than $9,000.
The Long Beach Police Department said no arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing.
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