A real estate investor who went to take a look at house he was thinking about buying was confronted and attacked by a squatter living in the home, officials said Tuesday.
The victim drove to a house in the 6900 block of Elm Street in Highland Monday night, and let himself into the home, which was supposed to be vacant.
As he walked around the residence, investigators said the victim was confronted by Nhieu Phung, who demanded the man’s keys. When he refused, Phung allegedly began hitting him repeatedly in the face.
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The victim suffered severe injuries to his face before he was able to get away, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
Investigators believe Phung, who was recently released from prison as part of the realignment plan known as AB 109, was living in the vacant home and he was found by deputies hiding in a closet.
Phung was arrested on charges of battery and attempted carjacking and remains in custody at the West Valley Detention Center.
