Man Arrested After Violent Attack at Chana Park 

June 9, 2026 – Placer County Sheriff's Office officials report that on Saturday, May 23, a woman fishing with her son and her elderly mother were violently attacked at Chana Park in North Auburn. The elderly victim, who uses a wheelchair, was knocked to the ground and briefly lost consciousness. The second victim was also knocked to the ground and repeatedly punched in the head.

A Good Samaritan heard the woman's cries for help, ran to assist, and tackled the suspect. With the help of another man who was at the park, he restrained the suspect until deputies arrived.

When deputies arrived at Chana Park just minutes after receiving reports of an assault in progress, they found 49-year-old Michael Appleberry, who was staying at The Gathering Inn in Auburn, being restrained by the two Good Samaritans. The investigation determined Appleberry had violently assaulted both women before the men intervened and stopped the attack.

Appleberry resisted arrest and later spit blood on medical personnel. He was arrested and booked into jail. He is currently being held on four felony charges, including battery and causing injury to an elder adult, as well as two misdemeanor charges.

We commend the quick actions of the two Good Samaritans whose intervention stopped the attack and likely prevented further injuries.

Source: Placer County Sheriff's Office