Last Sunday, an 81-year-old lady was walking her dog in a residential area near Scholarship and Dupont, in Irvine. As she crossed the street, the dog stopped to relieve herself.

A driver approaching the lady got upset that she was in the road and yelled at her as he drove by. After the two exchanged words, the man stopped, exited his car, and pushed the lady to the ground. When the victim fell, she sustained multiple injuries, including a fractured arm and dislocated shoulder.

Nearby residents immediately helped the lady, and one resident took photos of the suspect’s vehicle.

The Irvine Police Department was very thankful to witnesses who provided information and evidence that led to the arrest of Matthew Christopher Tye, 47, on Tuesday.

Tye was booked at Orange County Jail on felony elder abuse and felony battery charges.

This case highlights the Irvine Police Department’s great partnership with the community and the importance of being a good witness.

Here are some things to keep in mind if you witness a crime occur:

• Call 9-1-1
• Capture license plates of vehicles involved
• Get a good description of the suspect
• Take photos if it is safe to do so
• Provide a statement to the police