92-year-old woman's back broken while struggling to fight off an attacker

ORLANDO, Fla. (FOX 35 WOFL) - The Orange County Sheriff's Office said that last week, a 92-year-old woman was attacked and severely injured by a suspect who detectives believe wanted to harm her.

The Sheriff's Office said the suspect came to her door at her home off of North Hiawassee Rd.

"This is horrific, and this person is a monster," said Sheriff' Office spokesperson Jane Watrel.  "Our victim was in the garage, and she heard her doorbell ring, she goes to the door, and there's a man asking to use the bathroom.  She's a sharp older lady and refuses to let him in, but he has a weapon and there's a struggle," said Watrel.  

Investigators said the elderly woman broke her back trying to fight the man off and that her condition has been "touch and go."  She had surgery last week and has been in intensive care ever since.

She was the only witness to the attack, and because she was in the intensive care unit, the Orange County Sheriff's Office sketch artist had to wait until Monday to meet with her and come up with a composite.

The victim is a 40-year resident of Orange County, said the sheriff's office. She is well-known and well-liked in her neighborhood and has a strong family support system.  Bob Watson has lived across the street from her for 34 years.

 "She's one fine lady," said Watson, who added that he is not surprised she fought back against her accused attacker. 

If there's any chance you recognize the man in the composite sketch, you're asked to call the Orange County Sheriffs Office or CRIMELINE at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).