Long Beach paletero Eliu Ramirez says he is off his cart and out of work after a July 4 beating at Belmont Pier that left him with a fractured nose and vision problems. Ramirez told reporters the trouble started when someone told him he was not allowed to sell at the pier, and that several men later returned and assaulted him. A community fundraiser is now helping his family cover expenses while he recovers.
What happened
Long Beach police say an initial investigation found the vendor was selling when "a male adult suspect approached the victim and assaulted him," according to FOX 11 Los Angeles. The station reports Ramirez suffered a fractured nose and has told reporters he cannot see properly and is in frequent pain. Officers say the case remains active and detectives are looking for additional witnesses.
Community response and support
Community advocate Tito Rodriguez, known locally as "Hood Santa," urged vendors to speak up and stand together, saying, "These are pillars of the community. These are people who work hard," as quoted by FOX 11 Los Angeles. A GoFundMe organizer wrote that donations will go toward rent, groceries and medical bills while Ramirez is unable to work. Neighbors and advocates said the attack has renewed worries about harassment and alleged localized intimidation of vendors in tourist-heavy areas.
Broader context
The Long Beach incident comes amid wider concern over violence against street vendors following a viral June attack on a hot dog seller in downtown Los Angeles that prompted prosecutors to file felony charges, according to The Los Angeles Times. That case led to a City Hall news conference where officials and advocates called for stronger protections, and the district attorney's office said it is reviewing additional allegations. Advocates say many vendors, often immigrant workers, face threats and frequently avoid reporting incidents because of fear and precarious employment.
What officials are saying
Univision reported that Ramirez has said he was repeatedly threatened in the Belmont Shore area and quoted him as saying "esto viene de parte del patrón," alleging that a boss sent the attackers. Long Beach police have not announced any arrests and say the investigation is ongoing. Community groups are continuing to push for witnesses to come forward and are working to support Ramirez as he recovers.
