Victor Velasquez, beating victimPHOENIX (CBS5) -
Police are raising new awareness about the case of a Phoenix man brutally beaten in a field one year ago in hopes new leads can track down his attackers.
Victor Velasquez was a mechanic in between jobs and living in a field in the area of 3100 W. Buckeye Road, said Silent Witness Coordinator Sgt. Darren Burch.
Police got a 911 call on Aug. 20, 2011 about 11:30 p.m. indicating someone was hurt. Officers found Velasquez savagely beaten and clinging to life.
A business surveillance video showed three suspects running away southbound across Buckeye Road.
"We're no closer to solving that crime," Burch said.
When officers arrived at the scene, they spoke briefly with a bicyclist but before they could obtain any more information, the bicyclist sped away.
"We know we have several witnesses," Burch said. "Someone who called 911 and somehow on a bicycle who may be able to provide more detailed information."
Velasquez was not expected to survive. He suffered irreparable neurological damage as a result of the attack and must still face additional surgeries.
"He'll be in the care home for the rest of his life," said Care Provider Linda Blair.
People with any information about the crime are asked to call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS or 1-800-343-TIPS.
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