Tips sought in man's '06 death

6/23/2007

Toledo police are seeking information through the Crime Stopper program about the death last year of an 88-year-old North Toledoan after he was robbed at a north-end carryout.

Ted Kusina, formerly of Mettler Street, died Aug. 6 in Heartland-Holly Glen Nursing Home on Monroe Street, where he was admitted for rehabilitation after the assault on May 29, 2006.

He was going to buy lottery tickets about 11:30 a.m. when he was attacked while leaving Tom's Carryout at Dexter and Lagrange streets by a youth who demanded his wallet. When he refused, he was pushed to the ground and his wallet was stolen, police said.

Mr. Kusina was admitted to Toledo Hospital with a fractured hip and ribs and went to the nursing home June 5, 2006. The Lucas County coroner ruled his death a homicide after exhuming his body, reviewing his records, and determining the assault contributed to his death.

A witness told police that two black males who were 14 to 16 years old walked up to Mr. Kusina's car. Later, the robber, who fit the description of one of the two youths and was wearing a white shirt, ran toward the alley behind the carryout after Mr. Kusina was held up.

Police said yesterday the suspect is a black male who could be as young as 14 or 15 years old or he may just appear to be that young.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Crime Stopper program. Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.