A McAlester mother, Alicia Maxey, is fighting for her life at a Tulsa hospital after a brutal attack by an unidentified animal that authorities say is unlike anything they’ve seen in over 30 years. Investigators are working with wildlife experts to determine the mysterious animal responsible for Alicia’s severe injuries.
The Attack: A Brutal Encounter
The attack occurred early Sunday morning in a remote yard in Blanco, Oklahoma. Initially, the family believed that a dog was responsible for the attack, but the severity of Alicia’s injuries led to further investigation. The Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office has enlisted the help of Oklahoma Wildlife Services to identify what kind of animal attacked Alicia.
According to investigators, Alicia was driving to inquire about a farmhand job when she was attacked. She was found about an hour later by the homeowner, an EMT, who immediately started life-saving efforts until a medical helicopter could arrive.
Sheriff Frankie McClendon of Pittsburg County shared his shock over the incident, stating, “[In] 38 years, I’ve never been involved or seen anything to this extent as far as injuries caused by a wild animal.”
Injuries and Ongoing Investigation
Alicia suffered extensive injuries to her face, arms, and legs and has already undergone four surgeries. The severity of the wounds prompted investigators to collect evidence, including clothing that was torn from the victim, which will undergo DNA testing to determine whether the attacker was a dog, a bear, or a mountain lion.
From her hospital bed at Ascension St. John, Alicia has shared some details about the moments leading up to the attack. Her sister-in-law, Kat Kelley, recounted that Alicia recalled hearing a “deep growl” before being pounced on and knocked to the ground. Alicia described the creature as being dog-like, but she was unsure if it was indeed a dog.
The Family’s Struggle and Secondary Crisis
As Alicia continues her painful recovery, her family is facing another crisis. Wallace Maxey, Alicia’s husband, is on the kidney transplant list and requires dialysis treatments three times a week. With Alicia hospitalized, Wallace is now struggling to get to his treatments, as their only vehicle was impounded after the attack.
In a deeply emotional statement, Wallace shared, “When I first walked in and I saw her, I just broke down and started crying. I wasn’t expecting this.” Despite the hardships, Wallace remains focused on Alicia’s character, saying, “Alicia is a loving, caring person. It doesn’t matter who you are, she will sit there and help you the best that she can.”
Community Support: GoFundMe Established
The community has rallied behind the Maxey family in their time of need, working together to cover mounting costs for food, housing, and the fees to retrieve their impounded vehicle. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist with Alicia’s recovery and to ensure that Wallace can reach his critical medical appointments.
Ongoing Investigation and Help Needed
The investigation into the mysterious animal attack continues as authorities work to identify the animal responsible. Meanwhile, the community’s support has been essential in helping the Maxey family during this difficult time.
For those interested in supporting the Maxey family, donations can be made through the GoFundMe set up for Alicia’s recovery and Wallace’s medical needs.
