Elderly man attacked, subjects at large

SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, Fla. (WSVN) -- Police are looking for three subjects who attacked a 77-year-old man at his home.

Miami-Dade Police said the attack happened Sunday afternoon at Leland Stansell's home, located at 8155 SW 52nd Ave.

Authorities said a woman came to Stansell's front door to let him know she would be coming back later in the day to collect some mangoes. Stansell frequently sells and gives away mangoes from his yard. Around 2 p.m., the woman returned with two men. Stansell started collecting the mangoes, and that's when police said, the men started punching and kicking him.

Officials said the subjects took Stansell's cellphone and money. The attackers tried to drag him back to his home but Stansell fought back and did not let them inside his home.

Stansell's son is amazed at how his elderly father fought his attackers. "They thought they had an easy target," said Jim Stansell. "They said, 'Well, here's an old guy. We can knock him down, and that will be it, and we can just take whatever we want,' and they didn't expect him to stand up for himself and fight. I'm proud of him. When I hear the whole thing, I'm in shock. I'm very proud of him."

Nearby surveillance video captured a red van leaving the area. Police said this was the possible getaway car.

Stansell is recovering from jaw surgery, but he is expected to be OK.

Jim said his father is an active fisherman and a retired attorney.

If you have any information on this attack, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

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