VAN NUYS : Suspect Released to Nursing Home

An 89-year-old Van Nuys man charged with the attempted murder of his 83-year-old roommate was released to a convalescent home Thursday without trial.

Prosecutors said neither John Bautista Murano nor the victim, who has recovered, have any recollection of the attack.

“His condition indicates he is unable to make decisions for himself, that’s why we’re going through this procedure,” said Deputy Dist. Atty. Herbert R. Lapin.

Municipal Judge Robert Swasey released Murano on his own recognizance to his nephew, who promised to take him to a home in Adams, Mass.

Murano, who stumbled and nearly fell to the ground as he slowly walked into the courtroom, is charged with attacking 83-year-old Mary Leo in her Van Nuys home.

Police were summoned May 12 to the house the two shared on Wyandotte Street and found a bloodied Leo in her bedroom.

Leo suffered a broken vertebra, a crushed eye socket, a broken leg and arm, and a severe injury to her scalp.

Medical officials at first expressed doubts about Leo’s chance of survival, but her son-in-law reported Thursday that she has largely recovered and is living with him and her daughter in the San Fernando Valley.

While allowing Murano to leave the state practically ensures he will never be brought to trial, prosecutors have so far refused to dismiss the case.

“We want to make sure he doesn’t slip through the system, (but) this case will be in limbo for some time,” Lapin said.

Swasey set another hearing for Sept. 7 to make sure Murano is receiving care at a nursing home.