HOLLYWOOD HILLS, LOS ANGELES — Margaux Mirkin, the heiress to the Budget Rent a Car fortune, was allegedly robbed, beaten, and strangled inside her home on Lookout Mountain Avenue in Hollywood Hills on Thursday, April 23.
The Attack
At approximately 8 p.m. local time, masked men reportedly broke into Mirkin’s home, assaulted her, and stole cash and jewelry. Neighbors later identified the victim as Margaux Mirkin, believed to be in her 70s.
Mirkin was transported to a hospital, where authorities confirmed she was in stable condition. Despite the brutal attack, it is believed she survived the incident. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has not yet captured any of the suspects, who are still at large.
Neighbor Reactions and Discovery
Neighbor Kristen Stavola, executive director of the We Are Laurel Canyon Neighborhood Association, described the Mirkin property as a “massive, sprawling estate.” Another neighbor raised alarm when they noticed suspicious activity on the property. They observed individuals carrying items down from the hillside and loading them into a car, even as the neighbor flashed a light on them, seemingly unfazed by being spotted.
Stavola shared the shocking details with CBS News, saying, “He went out there with a flashlight… they were pretty brazen and they kept doing it while he was flashing a light on them.”
Neighbor Lee Bridges expressed his shock, saying, “Normally the only crime issue we have in this neighborhood is people breaking into mailboxes or cars, so this is absolutely new, and I’m upset about this.” He added that Mirkin was a “normal” neighbor, leading a quiet, retired life.
Mirkin’s Background
According to NBC News, Mirkin owns the property where the alleged attack occurred. She is the daughter of Morris Mirkin, the late founder of Budget Rent a Car.
Neighbors and acquaintances described her as a retired senior living peacefully in the neighborhood. Her family’s ties to the car rental company have made her well-known in the area.
Ongoing Investigation
The LAPD continues to investigate the break-in and assault. Authorities have not yet released additional details or comments regarding potential suspects.
