A 75-year-old woman was left with catastrophic injuries, including permanent loss of vision in one eye, after a violent assault on a downtown Seattle street. The incident took place just outside the King County Courthouse as the victim waited to cross the road when a man approached and struck her from behind with a wooden board embedded with screws, according to police reports.
Repeat Offender Identified by Police
The suspect, 42-year-old Fale Vaigalepa Pea, was quickly detained by Seattle and King County law enforcement officers who responded to the scene. Body-cam video released by authorities shows officers immediately recognizing Pea as a familiar figure with a long history of arrests for assault and other offenses, often in the downtown area. Despite multiple bookings this year, he had previously avoided serious felony charges before being charged with first-degree assault in connection with this brutal attack.
Family Speaks Out, Community Concern Grows
Family members expressed shock and frustration at the severity of the attack and the perceived gaps in the criminal justice system that allowed the suspect to remain at large. The victim, who supported herself and worked daily before the assault, now faces extensive medical treatment, a lengthy recovery, and significant lifestyle changes due to her injuries. A community fundraiser has been launched to assist with medical bills and rehabilitation costs.
