Two teenagers allegedly beat an 88-year-old World War II veteran to death in Spokane, Wash., Wednesday night, leading to a large manhunt and widespread outrage over the senseless violence.
One suspect is in custody facing charges of first-degree murder and first-degree robbery, while another remains on the loose. Police originally described the suspects to be 16-19 in age, black males and both wearing black clothing, with one wearing a black "Do-Rag."
Delbert Benton, who took a bullet in his leg at the Battle of Okinawa, was headed to the Eagles Lodge, a pool hangout he frequented, when the two perpetrators evidently chose him at random, KHQ reports:
Belton was rushed to the hospital where he was placed in the intensive care unit but later died ... Family & friends of Delbert Belton tell KHQ's Dylan Wohlenhaus that Delbert was "full of life" at 88-years-old.
They say Belton loved working on cars and helping out others. Belton also served overseas in the military in WWII. Friends of Belton say he was wounded in WWII in Okinawa but survived. Police have not said if or what the motive was for the beating. Police believe this was a random attack. A makeshift memorial has been set up at the crime scene to honor Belton.