Shelby Twp. Man Brutally Beats Elderly Man In Random Attack In Sterling Heights: Police

STERLING HEIGHTS, MI — A 31-year-old Shelby Township man could spend the rest of his life in prison after brutally beating an elderly man in a random attack in Sterling Heights earlier this week, according to the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office.

The attack happened Tuesday morning at 8 a.m. on Riverland Drive, near the Clinton River Trail, between Van Dyke and Clinton River Roads in Sterling Heights, according to the prosecutor's office.

The 76-year-old man was taken to a nearby hospital where he was treated for injuries, including a stab wound, and is expected to be ok, according to the prosecutor's office.

Defrim Lazaj was charged with assault with intent to murder and assault with a dangerous weapon. He was placed in jail with a bond set at $500,000. He faces up to life in prison for the intent to murder charge and up to four years in prison for the assault with a dangerous weapon.

If Lazaj posts bond, he must wear a GPS tether and have no contact with the elderly man. His next court hearing is scheduled for Nov. 25.

The elderly man went out for his morning walk along Riverland Drive where Lazaj followed him for several miles, according to the prosecutor's office.

Lazaj then attacked the elderly man from behind, punching him multiple times in the head and face, according to the prosecutor's office.

During the assault, Lazaj also stabbed the elderly man with a knife, according to the prosecutor's office.

Moments later, several good Samaritans intervened and forced Lazaj to run away, according to the prosecutor's office.

Sterling Heights Police quickly arrested Lazaj in connection with the attack nearby, according to the prosecutor's office.

"Our senior citizens deserve to feel safe and secure in their communities, and attacks like this are absolutely intolerable," Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said. "This was a brutal, senseless act targeting one of our elderly residents. Protecting seniors is a top priority for my office, and we are committed to seeking justice for this victim and ensuring that those who harm our elders face the full consequences of the law."