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County and State Investigators Join Case on Attack of Elderly Woman

HAZLETON — Luzerne County detectives and state troopers have joined the investigation into a 94-year-old woman who was attacked inside her home last week....

HAZLETON -- Luzerne County detectives and state troopers have joined the investigation into a 94-year-old woman who was attacked inside her home last week.

Newswatch 16 found detectives patrolling Muir Avenue on Monday, but authorities still have not said if the case started as a home invasion, or if the attacker was welcomed into the home.

Neighbors and family members said Josephine Smalley was flown to a trauma center in Allentown, but hospital officials would not release any information

Members of Holy Rosary Church in Hazleton said Smalley was a faithful parishioner who attended mass six days a week.

“She loved this church especially and she was always there when we needed something done,” said Melvin Makuta. "We`re supposed to be a forgiving people, and we are. I pray for the victim. I pray for the person that`s doing this.”

Neighbors who live nearby said they’re anxiously waiting for answers about the case and the condition of their beloved neighbor.

"I hope whoever did it, come give yourself up. It's the best thing you should do. To ease everybody`s pain, especially her family,” said Rose Negron.

Anyone with information is urged to call the Luzerne County District Attorney’s office or Hazleton Police.

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