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Blind Salvation Army Bell Ringer Attacked At Route 119 Smash Burger

GREENBURGH, N.Y. -- Police are investigating what they said was an assault on a legally blind Salvation Army bell ringer inside a Route 119 restaurant Saturday afternoon.

Juan Rodriguez of Valhalla.

Juan Rodriguez of Valhalla.

Photo Credit: Greenburgh Police
Audrianna Wignal of Mount Vernon

Audrianna Wignal of Mount Vernon

Photo Credit: Greenburgh Police
Smash Burger on Tarrytown Road (Route 119) in Greenburgh.

Smash Burger on Tarrytown Road (Route 119) in Greenburgh.

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Greenburgh Police responded at around 3 p.m. to Smash Burger at 49 Tarrytown Road to a report of a fight in progress, they said.

The victim was standing on line along with Juan Rodriguez, 30, of Valhalla, and Audrianna Wignal, 21, of Mount Vernon, a friend of Rodriquez, when Rodriguez accused the victim of cutting the line, according to police.

Rodriguez then struck the victim with his fist, knocking him to the ground, said police. 

Rodriguez then straddled the victim continuing to strike him about the head while Wignal allegedly kicked him, according to police.

Rodriguez then threw the Salvation Army kettle at the victim striking him in the head, according to police.

The victim was transported to White Plains Hospital where he was treated for head and facial injuries, police said.

Rodriguez and Wignal were arrested at the scene and charged with third-degree assault. Rodriguez later had his charge upgraded to second-degree assault, police said. 

Rodriguez is currently on parole for second-degree assault and Wignal is currently on probation for second-degree criminal mischief, said police.

The investigation into this assault is continuing and Greenburgh Detectives are asking anyone with information to contact them at (914) 989-1723, according to police. 

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