Barney's Beanery robbery suspect charged with additional assaults

Sheriff's officials said Thursday that a man who brutally attacked a longtime valet at Barney's Beanery in West Hollywood committed at least four more assaults in the same area within about 20 minutes.

According to the sheriff's office, five men and one woman were the targets of the attacks, which occurred between 10:15 p.m. and 10:35 p.m. Saturday in the 8400 block of Santa Monica Boulevard.

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One of the victims was Efrain “Frankie” Zarazua, a parking attendant at Barney's Beanery who was attacked outside the restaurant at 8447 Santa Monica Blvd. around 10:30 p.m. Saturday. Surveillance video of the attack shows the shirtless attacker slamming Zarazua to the ground, then punching him and repeatedly kicking him in the head. Sheriff's officials said the suspect kicked him about 10 times in the head and torso.

“Frank is currently in critical condition in intensive care with multiple injuries to his head, neck and body,” the restaurant said in an Instagram post. “Frankie has been part of Barney's team for over 30 years. He is friendly, funny and welcoming to everyone he meets.”

Zarazua's son, Chris, told reporters his father could have been killed in the brutal attack. He said another co-worker at the restaurant was attacked by the suspect at a nearby bus stop and another person was attacked nearby.

“I believe my father … was trying to find out what the commotion was about and unfortunately … ran into the attacker,” he said.

The suspect was described as a 5'9″ man with a short beard who was last seen wearing a white hat and gray pants. He is believed to be homeless.

Investigators are looking for any additional victims or witnesses who may have information about the attacks. They can contact Detective Brandon Zeff of the West Hollywood Station at 310-358-4033. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.

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