Two teenagers from Niagara Falls are facing charges after police say they dropped a 50-gallon garbage tote on a tourist over the summer, breaking her clavicle and giving her a concussion.
Police have been investigating since the woman was injured August 10th. Earlier this month they arrested 17-year-old Zachary Messing, and charged him with third degree assault and first-degree reckless endangerment. Another 15-year-old is facing the same charges, but his name isn't being released because of his age.
The woman who was visiting from Ohio over the summer was walking by the Rainbow Mall with her husband and two kids after watching a fireworks display at Niagara Falls State Park. Police say the teens managed to drop the large plastic garbage tote on the woman from the mall's parking ramp. She had to be hospitalized because of her injuries, but returned home shortly after.
Police arrested the 15-year-old November 6th, and arrested Messing the 20th. Chief of Detectives Kelly Rizzo tells 7 Eyewitness News this case was a priority for detectives, and that a lead in the case came after an interview with some juveniles who were arrested for breaking into cars near the Rainbow Mall.
Messing's case will move forward in Niagara Falls City Court. The 15-year-old's case will be handled in Niagara County Family Court.
