MIDTOWN, Manhattan (WABC) — In a shocking incident that unfolded in a Macy's bathroom, Kerri Aherne, a 43-year-old woman, has been accused of stabbing a tourist from California while she was changing her 10-month-old daughter. This disturbing attack occurred just before 3 p.m. on Thursday, right in the heart of the holiday shopping season, at the flagship store in Manhattan.
Aherne, who hails from Tewksbury, Massachusetts, has a troubling history, including a previous arrest for threatening Senator Elizabeth Warren. According to the Manhattan district attorney's office, she had been hospitalized for psychiatric issues and was discharged from the Manhattan Psychiatric Center earlier on the day of the assault. Prosecutors revealed that Aherne had been at the psychiatric facility for over a year before her release.
According to prosecutors, Aherne entered the Macy's bathroom on the 7th floor and attacked the victim, stabbing her in the back and slashing her arm. The attack was alarming enough that the mother dropped her baby from the changing table, but fortunately, the infant was unharmed. The victim, a 38-year-old woman from California, was quickly assisted by her partner, who is a member of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. They managed to subdue Aherne until store security intervened.
The victim was rushed to the hospital following the incident, where she was reported to be in stable condition. Her partner provided updates, stating that she is currently resting and recovering from the traumatic experience.
Kerri Aherne appeared in court on Friday night, where she was ordered to be held without bail. She faces serious charges, including attempted murder in connection with the stabbing. If convicted of this top charge, Aherne could face up to 25 years in prison. During her court appearance, Aherne expressed her reluctance to return to a hospital, stating, “they did not help me.”
A spokesperson for Macy's released a statement expressing their sadness regarding the incident, emphasizing that the safety of their customers and colleagues is a top priority. They have referred any further inquiries to local authorities.
Aherne's next court date is set for December 17, where additional details of the case may emerge. As more information becomes available, the community remains on edge, reflecting on the unsettling nature of this seemingly unprovoked attack.
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