By: Richard L. Smith
A woman was hospitalized after an altercation in Montclair that left her with a head injury, according to a statement released by the Montclair Police Department.
Police said officers were dispatched to the Valley Road parking lot area on June 2 following reports of a fight in progress.
When officers arrived, they found a woman suffering from a laceration on the left side of her head.
Authorities said the victim was uncooperative with responding officers at the scene. Montclair EMS provided medical treatment before transporting her to Saint Joseph’s Hospital for further care.
According to police, investigators reviewed witness accounts and surveillance footage from the area.
The investigation determined that the woman had been sitting on a sidewalk bench while involved in a verbal dispute with a man described as dark-skinned, wearing a black shirt and carrying a backpack.
The video reportedly showed the woman standing up during the argument and appearing to throw a liquid at the man.
Police said the man then responded by striking her with a closed fist, causing the injury.
After the incident, the suspect was seen walking north on Valley Road and leaving the area before officers arrived.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Montclair Police Department.