A 98-year-old man was brutally attacked by a 27-year-old woman handing out campaign flyers for a Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) candidate in a Brooklyn apartment building lobby at roughly on Thursday afternoon.

The elderly victim was left with minor head injuries after he was punched, kicked, and struck with a broomstick and a metal chair.

Tashara Abel, 27, was stuffing reelection flyers into mailboxes for Anthony Beckford, a DSA member and New York State Committee Member running for re-election as a Democratic district leader in the June 23 primary, when the elderly man walked in, and the two began arguing over the campaign materials, police and neighbors said, according to a report from the New York Post.

Abel “repeatedly punched and kicked the older man” before striking him with the broomstick and a metal chair, cops said.

Surveillance photos of the suspect leaving the building were released by police.

98-year-old beaten with broomstick in NYC by woman handing out flyers for Democratic Socialist of America candidate https://t.co/CJiiVZk4ya pic.twitter.com/aMbooyiFia

— New York Post (@nypost) June 6, 2026

The victim was treated for his head injuries at the scene and declined being transported to the hospital.

CBS News reports:

Neighbors said they know the victim.

“He’s a fairly nice guy, so everyone who walks up and down here, either with their kids or are delivering stuff, like, they know who he is,” said neighbor Pierre Verna. “He’s a good guy, been around for a long time. So hopefully he’s alright.”

“Why would someone want to do something like that to someone like that? It’s heartbreaking. It’s sad. I don’t know. I’m confused as to why. What was the reason for that?” another neighbor said.

Beckford’s campaign told CBS that they are “reviewing the incident.”

“I am currently reviewing the situation to better understand the full circumstances, and I have personally reached out to the voter involved to ensure he is doing well and has the support he needs,” the statement began.

“While volunteers may operate independently, anyone associated with my campaign is expected to conduct themselves with respect and professionalism at all times, and if it is determined that an individual connected to my campaign acted inappropriately, appropriate action will be taken,” the statement continued.

“We will continue to monitor this matter closely and remain prepared to cooperate with the appropriate authorities as needed, as our priority is maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all residents.”

Abel has been charged with three counts of assault, burglary, and criminal possession of a weapon.

Ad block users: Some site features may not work correctly while an ad blocker is enabled, because they break scripts and content this website depends on. If you can't see comments below, for example, please disable your ad blocker.