Times exclusive: South Park attack survivor breaks her silence

For the first time since the horrifying attack in South Park that killed 39-year-old Teresa Butz five months ago, the murder victim’s 37-year-old partner – who survived despite serious wounds – has broken her silence. She spoke, anonymously, with Seattle Times (WSB partner) reporter Jennifer Sullivan, not commenting on the attack itself, but about how she is getting on with her life, telling the Times, “Survival is about being part of the world, not getting lost in the fear …” She also has moved away from South Park, to Capitol Hill. The story was published tonight; you can read it here, including how she is about to help launch a new self-defense program for women.

forteresa December 18, 2009 (10:23 am)

Absolutely incredible story. I can see her courage and feel her fear. And her strength in moving forward yet keeping her partner alive. I cannot believe what she has done in such a short time. And I am sad that up until this attack she had no concept of evil and wasn’t afraid of the dark. Thank you for bringing this article to our attention.

Jake December 18, 2009 (10:48 am)

If she spoke anonymously, how do we know it was her?

Cheryl December 18, 2009 (11:58 am)

Incredible story! I sincerely hope she’ll continue to share her experience – for the sake of her own healing, but also to help other women who may have been victims of similar attacks.

Thank you T for sharing this w/ the WSB readers. I’ve been wondering how she was doing. Continued prayers for her and for Teresa’s family/friends.

Lauren December 18, 2009 (12:13 pm)

Good for her. It takes a special person to make something good out of such a horrible thing. I wish her peace and strength.

WSN_Helen December 18, 2009 (12:53 pm)

So very courageous of her to speak out. I hope in her journey towards healing she finds a great support network and lots of love.

Meghan December 18, 2009 (1:58 pm)

What a tragic, heartbreaking story. And what an incredibly brave woman.

Kryptonite December 18, 2009 (3:38 pm)

Jake: Seriously? That’s all you can think of to say?

We are all murder victims when two such esteemed, lovely members of society are stricken in a brutal attack such as this. I wish the survivor sublime peace and comfort.

Sorry, comment time is over.