Brooklyn man arrested after unprovoked UWS attack

UPPER WEST SIDE, NY – Anthony Melendez, 37, of Brooklyn, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault in connection with a brutal, unprovoked attack on a 77-year-old woman on West 72nd Street last week, the NYPD announced Monday evening.

Melendez, who gave authorities an address in East New York, was arrested on Sept. 19, police said.

The attack occurred around 2 p.m. near West 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue, police said. Melendez allegedly approached the 77-year-old victim from behind and struck her in the side of her face, near her left eye.

The victim, whose identity has not yet been established, refused medical help and went home, according to police.

She did not report the attack until September 17. Melendez was arrested two days later, on September 19.