CUDAHY — Customers stopped by Jen's Sweet Treats in Cudahy not only for a delicious baked good but to also to see how the shop owner is doing after she was attacked Sunday morning.
"I’m doing OK," Jen said. "I’m one tough cookie, so I’m all right."
According to the Cudahy Police, Jen was attacked by a 34-year-old Milwaukee man while she was about to leave for an event. Jen was in her van parked outside of the shop when the man grabbed her and hit her in the face about five or six times.
"He grabbed the door and pulled it back open and pulled me out of the car." Jen said. "I don’t know that he wanted to steal my car, possibly to get away, I don’t know, or if he wanted to ensure havoc. I tried to get him off ... and he just unloaded on my face."
A 75-year-old man named Art was also attacked. He was beaten while waiting for the bus. Staff members at the Cudahy Pancake House were saddened to hear the news. They said Art is a retired law enforcement member and is like family to them.
"He’s not only my customer but he is also part of the family because he is here with us every single day," Enrique of the Pancake House said. "We miss him, and we are hurt because he’s a nice person."
Jen is unsure what provoked the attack, but she said she won't let this get her down. She will continue to focus on giving back to others. After Jen delivered treats to law enforcement members in Racine, she was planning on heading to the hospital to see how Art was doing in his recovery.
"I’m OK. Send prayers for Art so he heals quickly," Jen said.
Jen said her next fundraiser is June 7 on the anniversary of Officer Charles Irvin's End of Watch. All the proceeds will go to three different causes.
A GoFundMe account has been set up to help Jen but in true Jen fashion, she said the proceeds will also go to the other victim, Art. To donate to the GoFundMe, click here.
Here is a statement from Art's family:
"Art appreciates all of the love and prayers from the community. He is having surgery this afternoon to repair a broken jaw sustained in the attack. He is hoping for a smooth recovery and is anxious to get back home. He thanks everyone for their support and asks for privacy as he goes through his recovery over the coming weeks and months. Thank you."
