ROBBERY VICTIM BEAT WITH GUN

Elyria – Police are investigating the robbery of an Elyria man who said he was beaten with a handgun and robbed on North Street in Elyria Sunday morning.

Police say that the victim, Nick Williams, was walking along North Street when he was approached by a group of black male subjects. Williams said he was asked if they could use his cell phone. As he reached into his pocket to get the phone he was struck by one of the subjects. Williams said when he was getting up after the first hit he saw a pistol and was then struck in the face 3 to 4 times by the weapon. During the altercation Williams said he was unsure who was hitting him but remembers seeing Purvee Smallwood Jr. and Michael Johnson in the group that approached him. One of the subjects began to go through his pockets and took his pocket watch, cell phone, ID, and $23 in cash. At one point after getting his ID they called him by name.

After taking the items the group left and Williams crawled to the Police Department’s front lobby and was assisted by Sergeant Richard Ellis.Sergeant Ellis noticed Williams’ right eyes were swelling and several cuts to his face and swelling throughout. It also appeared that Williams’ right thumb had been broken. LifeCare responded to the Police Department and treated Williams before transporting him to Elyria Memorial Hospital.

Police are investigating the incident.