Oklahoma Woman Stabbed 14 Times on Her Porch by ‘Obsessed’ Ex-Co-Worker Before Brother Saves Her, Deputies Say
POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY, OKLAHOMA — An 18-year-old Oklahoma woman is recovering in critical condition after she was stabbed 14 times on her front porch by an “obsessed” former co-worker wearing a mask, authorities said. Deputies say the attacker ambushed her while she was eating a burger, and only fled after her brother rushed out and fought him off.
Masked Attacker Ambushes Teen on Porch in Brutal Early-Morning Assault
The violent attack happened around 1 a.m. Saturday, moments after the teen returned home and paused on her porch while eating. According to the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office, a masked man approached her from behind and began stabbing her in the neck and wrist without warning.
Captain Jared Strand told investigators the man uttered chilling words as he slashed her:
“I’m sorry, I’m sorry,”
he said while stabbing her repeatedly.
The woman screamed for help, waking both her mother and brother.
Her brother sprinted outside and tried to pull the attacker away, suffering stab wounds himself. His intervention forced the masked assailant to retreat to his vehicle and drive off, deputies said.
Deputies Say Suspect Was “Obsessed” and Sent Unwanted Gifts, Food Deliveries
Investigators quickly identified 24-year-old Ronaldo Zavala as the suspect, a former co-worker who allegedly displayed persistent, unwanted obsession with the victim.
The sheriff’s office said Zavala went far beyond typical boundary-crossing behavior:
“He was just obsessed with this female and she had no interest whatsoever,”
Captain Strand said.
“He sent unsolicited DoorDash orders, gifts — things that were not wanted.”
Authorities said Zavala and the victim had previously worked together at a local movie theater. After she filed a complaint about his behavior, Zavala was fired. Deputies say he then began stalking her, culminating in the planned, masked ambush.
On the night of the attack, investigators believe Zavala hid near her home, waiting for her to return.
Brother Credited With Saving Sister’s Life
Officials said the victim’s brother likely prevented a homicide. Though he suffered minor stab wounds, his quick and forceful actions scared off the attacker long enough for the family to call 911.
“He intervened and absolutely saved her life,”
deputies noted.
The woman was rushed to a hospital and listed in critical but stable condition following emergency treatment.
Deputies collected evidence at the scene that led directly to Zavala’s arrest.
Suspect Charged With Multiple Felonies
Zavala was arrested and booked into the Pottawatomie County Jail. According to jail records, he is charged with:
- Aggravated assault and battery
- Assault and battery while masked or disguised
- Domestic assault and battery with a deadly weapon
Authorities say the charges reflect not only the brutality of the attack but the stalking and calculated planning behind it.
Neighbors and community members have expressed shock that a simple moment — a young woman eating a burger on her own porch — turned into a life-or-death struggle.
As investigators continue building the case against Zavala, the victim remains hospitalized but stable, supported by family who credit swift action for preventing her murder. For more updates on major crime cases and local news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.