The festive atmosphere of Macy’s Herald Square shattered just weeks before Christmas, becoming the backdrop for a terrifying, unprovoked attack. A California tourist, simply trying to care for her infant daughter, found herself fighting for her life against a stranger.
The assailant, identified as 43-year-old Kerri Aherne, had been released from a Manhattan psychiatric facility earlier that same day. Authorities allege she deliberately purchased a knife within the store, driven by disturbing commands she claimed to be hearing.
According to prosecutors, Aherne actively sought a victim, compelled by voices that demanded she kill someone or face her own death. The attack unfolded on the seventh floor, in a seemingly safe haven of a department store bathroom, as the 38-year-old mother changed her ten-month-old baby.
The mother, a civilian employee of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office, displayed incredible bravery. During the assault, her baby fell from the changing table, but she managed to subdue Aherne, despite sustaining wounds to her back, shoulder, and arm.
News of the attack sent shockwaves through the victim’s family. The baby’s paternal grandmother expressed outrage, stating a desire for the maximum penalty for the attacker, believing such an act warranted a lifetime behind bars.
A close friend of the victim highlighted the mother’s strength and instinct, noting she wasn’t surprised by the woman’s courageous response. The friend described her as physically fit and capable, a testament to her protective nature.
The family’s long-awaited New York vacation, their first since the baby’s birth, has been tragically disrupted. Originally scheduled to depart Friday, they are now delayed indefinitely due to ongoing legal proceedings, their holiday dreams replaced by a harrowing ordeal.
In a chilling jailhouse interview, Aherne attributed her actions to the relentless pressure of a voice in her head. She claimed this voice specifically directed her to Macy’s, demanding she commit a violent act.
Aherne revealed she used money provided by a social worker to purchase the knife, reiterating the voice’s ultimatum: “Kill someone in the bathroom or you will die.” She further alleged government torture, claiming they were manipulating her thoughts and forcing her hand.
Despite the horrific act, Aherne expressed remorse, inquiring about the victim’s condition and the well-being of her baby. However, she vehemently denied responsibility, shifting blame to the government and hinting at potential legal action against them.
Aherne was denied bail and remains in custody, her case raising profound questions about mental health, public safety, and the challenges of reintegrating individuals recently released from psychiatric care.
