Woman Attacked While Walking Her Dog

If They Only Had a Byrna: A Daylight Attack That Didn’t Have to Happen

On today’s episode of If They Only Had a Byrna, we examine a terrifying real-world incident that unfolded in broad daylight—and the lessons it highlights about personal safety and preparedness.

Last fall, a woman was returning to her apartment building across from the Los Angeles Convention Center after an early-morning walk with her dog. As she reached the entrance, she was approached by a man believed to be homeless. According to reports, he began making incoherent noises before suddenly attacking her without provocation.

The assault escalated quickly. The attacker slammed the woman against the door, grabbed her in the groin area, and then shoved her to the ground. Her screams ultimately drew the attention of a man down the street, who ran over and pulled the attacker away. By the time police arrived, the suspect had fled the scene.

Unfortunately, no arrests have been made, and detectives have been unable to identify a suspect.

This is exactly the kind of scenario If They Only Had a Byrna was created to highlight.

Had this woman been equipped with a Byrna, she would have had access to a viable, effective—and most importantly, legal—means of self-defense that could have stopped the attack before it escalated. Most offenders are not looking for a fight; they are looking for an easy target of opportunity. In many cases, a clear show of force is enough to cause a would-be assailant to disengage and flee.

And if the attacker had continued to advance, the impact and deterrent effect of Byrna’s kinetic projectiles could have created the critical window needed for escape and safety—without resorting to lethal force.

In the aftermath of the attack, the victim told reporters she is now afraid to leave her apartment alone. No one should have to live like that.

Byrna empowers everyday people with confidence they can carry. Confidence to walk their dog. Confidence to commute. Confidence to live their daily lives knowing they have the tools and training to handle challenging situations like this one.

Stay smart. Stay aware. Stay safe—and always be prepared to defend yourself.