Pet shop owner attacked with crossbow in shocking incident
The pet shop owner in New Jersey who was shot in the face with a crossbow revealed that her assailant did not say a word before attempting to kill her at close range. Katarina Rukavishnikova, co-owner of Birds by Joe 2 in Saddle Brook, recounted the terrifying event to NBC 4, stating that the attacker, identified as Raymond M. Carey, entered the shop without warning and fired at her point-blank.
Rukavishnikova, who was working at the time of the assault, described Carey as a quiet and regular customer. However, on that fateful day, he came into the store with a small crossbow and began mumbling before shooting her. Despite the shocking attack, Rukavishnikova managed to wrestle the crossbow away from Carey and escape with broken teeth.
Security footage from a nearby business captured the harrowing moment when Rukavishnikova and Carey fled from the shop. Carey was later apprehended in Toms River, and is facing charges including first-degree attempted murder. This incident, coupled with a recent theft of a valuable parrot from the shop, has left Rukavishnikova considering the possibility of closing the store due to safety concerns.
Despite the trauma she experienced, Rukavishnikova bravely returned to work the next day, though she admits to feeling constantly fearful. The community has rallied behind her, offering support and solidarity during this difficult time.
Earlier this month, after receiving a tip, Rukavishnikova shared with The Post what had transpired last month.
