SEATTLE — An 88-year-old woman is recovering in the hospital after a brutal attack at her home in South Seattle, where a man assaulted her on her back porch, bit off her finger, and stole her jewelry, according to police. The incident, which occurred in mid-October, has left the community in shock as authorities search for the unidentified suspect.
The assailant, described as being in his 30s, confronted Emma Cotton at her Rainier Beach residence. Cotton recounted the harrowing experience, recalling how the man approached from behind and violently assaulted her. “He came at me from the back, and when I turned around, he started hitting me,” Cotton shared, expressing her disbelief at the aggression aimed toward her.
Amid the terrifying ordeal, Cotton complied when the attacker demanded her wedding ring. However, he continued to insist on more valuables. “He was selfish. He wanted any ring or anything I had on,” she explained. Despite her efforts to appease him, the assault escalated, leaving her with severe injuries. “He was biting on my fingers, and I just prayed to God. I was so bloody when he finished with me,” she said.
Cotton’s faith played a crucial role in her endurance during the assault. She noted with conviction, “God wouldn’t let him knock me out,” adding that her attacker seemed unmoved by her pleas for compassion.
As police continue their investigation, no arrests have been made. Detective Eric Muñoz of the Seattle Police Department confirmed that the case remains active. He emphasized the importance of community assistance in identifying the suspect. Authorities have gathered surveillance footage from a neighboring home, showing the individual wearing a black backpack and gray sneakers at the time of the attack. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Seattle Police Violent Crimes Tip Line.
Cotton, who leads the Senior Ministry at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Seattle’s Central District, is considered a pillar of her community. Family and friends describe her as kind-hearted and resilient. Her strength has garnered widespread support, including visits from Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell during her hospitalization.
Describing her sons as her superheroes, Cotton remains hopeful for her assailant’s future. “I hope he turns his life around and finds a way to contribute to the community,” she said.
As she continues to recover from her injuries, Cotton expresses gratitude for the divine support she feels. “God was in control, and I’m living proof. Each day I get better and better,” she stated, demonstrating her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.