Stabbing Victim In 'Good' Condition; Husband Thanks Supporters

Kerri Dalton, the victim of a violent stabbing attack at Bed Bath and Beyond on the afternoon of Jan. 17, is in "good condition" at Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, a spokesman said. 

The 29-year old Keansburg resident is taking strength by the expressions of support by the community, said her husband, Roger Dalton, in a written statement read aloud to the press by spokesman Robert Cavanaugh at the medical center. 

“Kerri and I are thankful for the outpouring of support Kerri has received from family, friends and the public. Words of concern and encouragement have meant so much during this difficult time. Each and every day, Kerri is improving physically, and we are so grateful for the care she has received. But she has a very long road of recovery ahead of her. 

"This was an unimaginable act of violence, and she needs time and support to heal from the psychological and emotional trauma, so we ask that you give us the continued privacy so that she does not feel threatened or uncomfortable in anyway once she has left the hospital,” Dalton said in the letter. 

A fundraising website account, www.HelpKerriDalton.org, has been set up by Kerri's close friend, Dorothy Paul. People can post well wishes, prayers and concerns on the site. 

Kerri Dalton's husband said she is aware, and appreciates, the community's support. 

A family friend who requested anonymity told Patch that she reads every card sent to her in the hospital, located at 1945 Route 33, Neptune, NJ 07753. She has been encouraged by good wishes posted for her recovery on the Patch sites, according to the friend. 

Dalton was shopping in the housewares store with her baby in a carriage when she was brutally attacked by a knife-wielding assailant in the curtains department.

The call for help brought a swift response from Middletown's Police, First Aid squads, and even the Fire Dept. who secured the scene for a Medevac transport from Thorne Middle School.  

Police arrested Tyrik Haynes, 19, of Middletown, shortly after the attack and charged him with attempted murder, child endangerment and weapons offenses. Haynes is being held on $1,050,000 million bail at the county jail.