In a shocking incident captured on video in Pacoima, California, a man was filmed striking an autistic child after the boy innocently touched his luxury car. The altercation unfolded on Monday at the intersection of Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Osbourne Street where 10-year-old Alfredo Morales and his elder sister were crossing the street. Alfredo, who is autistic, reached out and touched the emblem on a parked Mercedes-Benz sedan, sparking the owner’s outrage.
After making a U-turn, the vehicle’s owner approached Alfredo and his sister, who were waiting at a nearby bus stop. The video shows the man confronting the siblings before slapping Alfredo across the face and pointing angrily at them. The man is also seen inspecting his car’s emblem, bending it slightly before returning to his vehicle.
During the confrontation, Alfredo’s sister tried to intervene, explaining in Spanish that her brother has autism and special needs. This heartfelt plea, however, did not deter the man’s aggressive behavior.
The family of Alfredo expressed their disbelief and outrage over the incident. Miguel Morales, a relative, highlighted Alfredo’s condition, explaining, “Alfredo has autism and often touches objects around him to explore his environment.” He also confirmed plans to file a police report and provide the video footage to authorities.
The incident was recorded by a bystander named Ashley, who spoke to KTLA about the ordeal. “I was traumatized, I was shaking. I said, ‘Hey sir, stop! You can’t be doing that,'” recounted Ashley. Despite her efforts, the situation escalated before the authorities arrived.
After the video went viral on social media, community members rallied in support of Alfredo, with some even visiting the suspect’s residence to express their concern and demand accountability. A community member told KTLA, “We’re here to support and let the community know that this shouldn’t happen, especially with the boy being autistic.”
The suspect’s vehicle, identified as a 2023 S-class Mercedes-Benz sedan valued at approximately $146,000, became a focal point of the incident. Meanwhile, the Morales family, who are currently facing homelessness, have seen an outpouring of support from the community. A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist them in securing stable housing.
The Los Angeles Police Department was alerted at the time of the incident, but by the time officers arrived, all parties involved had left the scene. The father of the autistic child stated he would be discussing the matter further with the police.
This heartbreaking incident raises important questions about societal empathy and the protection of vulnerable individuals in public spaces.