BPD: Assault on Ellicott
Written by WBTA STAFF on June 3, 2019
Press Release:
Assault – Ellicott St.
The Batavia Police Department is investigating the assault of Mark E. Collier (02/11/1984).
On Sunday, June 2, 2019 at or about 9:15 PM, it was reported that a Hispanic male, later identified as Benjamin J. Santiago Jr. (DOB:02/28/1989), responded to 216 Ellicott St. to demand money from the resident, Mark Collier. Collier has given charitable donations to Santiago in the past. Last night, Collier denied Santiago’s request. Santiago became upset and struck Collier several times with a blunt instrument, causing significant injuries. Santiago stole additional items of value from the residence then immediately fled the scene.
Collier was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital by Mercy EMS. Collier suffered serious injuries and is listed in stable condition.
Santiago fled through the City of Batavia, stealing a bicycle and then stealing a vehicle from a residence in the Town of Batavia. A short while later the stolen vehicle was recovered and Santiago was apprehended by the Rochester Police Department in the City of Rochester.
Santiago was turned over to Batavia Police and arraigned in Batavia City Court. Santiago was remanded to the Genesee County Jail without bail. Santiago is scheduled to re-appear in Batavia City Court at 1:30 PM. Santiago is being charged with Assault in the 1st Degree (Class B Felony) and Robbery in the 1st Degree (Class B Felony).
This is an on-going investigation. Members of the Batavia Police Department will be in the area between State St. and Ross St. attempting to locate additional evidence. If anyone observes any items that appear suspicious or may be of evidentiary value, please do not touch or move them. Contact the Batavia Police Department at (585) 345-6350 to inform them of the item. A member of our Department will respond to investigate the item.
We would like to thank the City of Batavia Fire Department, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Rochester Police Department, New York State Troopers – Troop A, and Mercy EMS for their assistance with this investigation.
The Batavia Police Department can be reached at 585-345-6350, the confidential tip line at 585-345-6370 or online at http://www.batavianewyork.com/police-department/webforms/report-suspicious-drug-or-criminal-activity
