NEWPORT BEACH, CA – The tragic killing of a New Zealand grandmother during a robbery in an upscale Southern California town has reignited debates over the state’s criminal justice policies. The incident underscores the urgent call for stricter laws and enforcement to hold offenders accountable, a concern echoed by several lawmakers.
Orange County prosecutors have charged three men with murder in the death of 68-year-old Patricia McKay. McKay, who was visiting Newport Beach with her husband Douglas McKay, a prominent figure in New Zealand’s financial sector, was attacked outside the Fashion Island shopping center on July 2. The suspects, Leroy Ernest Joseph McCrary, 26; Malachi Edward Darnell, 18, both from Los Angeles; and Jaden Cunningham, 18, of Lancaster, face special-circumstances murder charges.
McCrary, who has prior felony convictions, has raised questions about why he was not incarcerated earlier. His criminal record includes residential burglary in 2018, criminal threats in 2020, and robbery in 2023. This has led to criticism of the criminal justice system’s handling of repeat offenders.
The suspects were apprehended after a high-speed police chase through Los Angeles County. They are now facing the possibility of the death penalty, despite Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2019 moratorium on executions. McCrary also faces charges of second-degree attempted robbery and reckless evasion, while Darnell is charged with attempted murder, personal use of a firearm, and other related offenses. Cunningham is charged with attempted second-degree robbery.
The McKays were waiting for a ride outside a Barnes & Noble when the suspects approached. Douglas McKay was held at gunpoint and forced to the ground while the assailants attempted to rob him. When they failed to obtain his belongings, Cunningham allegedly attacked Patricia McKay, dragging her into the street where McCrary ran her over with the getaway car, dragging her 65 feet.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from local officials and lawmakers. Newport Beach Mayor Will O’Neill and California Assemblywoman Diane Dixon have both condemned the state’s lenient approach to crime. Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer attributed part of the blame to Governor Newsom and the Democratic-led state legislature, arguing that their policies have emboldened criminals.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called the killing an “absolute tragedy” and extended his condolences to the McKay family. The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing assistance to the family during this difficult time.
The case has intensified calls for criminal justice reform in California, with lawmakers like California Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones advocating for tougher penalties and better enforcement. As the community mourns the loss of Patricia McKay, the debate over how to prevent such tragedies continues.