Di Blessing, a 72-year-old woman, has expressed her admiration for her husband’s courage following a violent incident that left both of them injured during an alleged home invasion in the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales.
According to law enforcement officials, Keith Blessing, aged 75, fired upon the suspected intruder, identified as Joshua Trethewey, 34, when he attempted to re-enter their residence.
The investigation into this event is still active, as authorities gather more information.
In a public statement released today, five days after the couple was attacked in their Torrington home, Ms. Blessing hailed her husband as a hero. During the incident, both she and Mr. Blessing sustained stab wounds.
Mr. Blessing reportedly shot Trethewey while he was attempting to gain access to the rural property, which is situated approximately 65 kilometers southwest of Tenterfield.
“I want to express my gratitude to my husband, my hero,” Ms. Blessing stated. “There can be no greater demonstration of love than that of protecting a loved one. I truly believe that without him, I would not be here today.”
While acknowledging the restrictions on what she could disclose about the “terrible night” due to the ongoing investigation, Ms. Blessing referred to the experience as a “nightmare.”
“The traumatic event has left us devastated,” she remarked.
She also expressed her appreciation to her daughters for “putting their lives on hold” to stand by their parents during this challenging time. “This ordeal has impacted them as well, and their lives will be forever altered,” she added.
Ms. Blessing mentioned that their family has been touched and comforted by the outpouring of support from both the public and the local community in Torrington.
A community fundraising initiative established after the attack has successfully raised nearly $3,000, which Ms. Blessing indicated would be donated to the local rescue helicopter service.
Regarding her husband’s health, Ms. Blessing noted that she has been discharged from a hospital on the Gold Coast of Queensland but will continue to receive outpatient care. Meanwhile, Mr. Blessing remains in stable condition.
As for Trethewey, he received treatment for a gunshot wound at the scene before being placed in an induced coma. He has been charged with two counts of wounding with intent to murder but has yet to appear in court.
