Tomb Raider actor Daniel Wu is offering a $15,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of those who set a 90-year-old Asian woman on fire.
In July, the elderly victim was approached by two men after leaving her home. The men slapped her in the face and set her on fire.
Asian Americans in New York then held a march to show their support for the senior victim.
The board and friends of Homecrest Community Services and musician MC Jin pledged a $15,000 reward for information on the men, which Wu then matched.
“I was appalled when I saw the news that a 90-year-old grandmother was struck and set on fire in a racially motivated attack,” said Wu.
“This attack must be classified as a hate crime and be treated that way by the police department as they continue to investigate.”
Despite the vicious attack, police refused to class the incident as a hate crime.
“We all need to stand up against hateful actions like this and bring the perpetrators to justice,” he added. “That’s why I’m offering an additional $15,000 reward to anyone with information that leads to the arrest and conviction of these individuals.”
Homecrest Community Services distributed specialized meals for Asian seniors amid the Coronavirus pandemic.
“As we continue to work with law enforcement on investigating this crime and classifying it as a hate crime, it is encouraging to see support for our efforts,” said Don Lee, board chair of Homecrest Community Services.
“We thank Daniel Wu for his support and generous donation. We are hopeful that this increase to the reward will encourage more people to come forward with information on those behind this attack.”
“The only way we can instill change is to work together. Keep raising awareness,” said MC Jin. “Keep using your voices. We will be heard.”
In related news, Asian American children are facing bullying related to Coronavirus.
