Elderly Businessman Survives Two Armed Attacks in Bento Gonçalves, Brazil

A 75‑year‑old businessman in Bento Gonçalves was targeted in two separate criminal assaults within 24 hours. On Friday, July 31, three men approached him, one brandishing a .32‑caliber revolver and demanding money. The victim escaped, prompting the assailants to flee empty‑handed. Police later located the getaway vehicle in Canoas and arrested the three suspects, ages 21, 25 and 26, seizing a revolver, a firearm replica, five cell phones, a watch, a precision scale and a small quantity of narcotics.

The following afternoon, August 1, a second group—believed to be linked to the first—returned to the businessman’s residence, again demanding cash. The victim’s wife fled to a nearby relative’s home and called for help. The attackers left without taking anything, and the businessman sustained injuries but was reported to be in stable condition. Local authorities continue to investigate both incidents.