Hammer and chemical weapons attack leaves victim screaming, crying and bleeding: PBSO report

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — A violent attack involving a hammer and a chemical attack took place in West Palm Beach over the weekend, leaving one woman seriously injured and two people behind bars.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (PBSO) said officers were called to 4545 Elmhurst Road, off N Military Trail, shortly after 6 a.m. Saturday for reports of an active disturbance.

As the officer approached the scene, he saw a woman running down the street “screaming, crying, and with blood on her face.” The woman had several deep cuts on her face and head, the officer noted in the report.

When the woman received assistance from the Palm Beach County Fire Department, the victim explained through an interpreter that she had invited a man to her home. However, 33-year-old Elmin Sanchez arrived unexpectedly and became angry when he saw the victim and the man together. According to the victim, Sanchez struck her multiple times with his fists and a hammer, causing significant injuries.

The victim managed to escape outside, but Sanchez followed her to the parking lot and doused her with a chemical substance, causing burns.

See also: Homeless man changes appearance after stabbing off-duty deputy, stealing patrol car: PBSO

While she was outside, 40-year-old Thelma Salinas allegedly began to physically assault her as well, the report states. The victim fought back. Salinas later told investigators that the victim hit her with a brick, causing her eye to swell. Sanchez also claimed that the victim attacked him.

When officers spoke with Sanchez, he said he had received text messages from the man the victim was dating. According to the affidavit, Sanchez showed up at the home and allegedly caught the two in a compromising situation, which led to the violent altercation.

Based on the arrest report, PBSO stated that there was probable cause and both Sanchez and Salinas would be booked into the Palm Beach County Jail on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Both are being held without bail.

Find more ways to stay up to date with the latest local news. Subscribe to our newsletter to get the day's top headlines delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe to our YouTube channel to get the most important stories and videos you can't miss.