Home / Crime and Justice / Man Gets 22 Years for Brutal Park Stabbing
Man Gets 22 Years for Brutal Park Stabbing
30 May
Summary
- Attacker sentenced to 22 years for attempted murder.
- Victim survived a brutal stabbing on a park trail.
- Community members intervened to save the victim's life.
Nicholas Fitzgerald Matthew was sentenced on Friday to 22 years in prison for the attempted murder of Victoria Nizzoli. The attack occurred on February 10, 2024, on the Blue Trail at Tacoma's Point Defiance Park. Nizzoli testified that Matthew attacked her from behind, repeatedly stabbing her.
Park visitors Julianna and John Vanenk, along with active-duty service member Rebecca Honeycutt, intervened to stop the assault. The Vanenks were later awarded medals of courage by the Tacoma Police Department for their bravery. Nizzoli, who did not attend the sentencing, stated in a victim-impact statement that the sentence did not fully represent the justice she sought.
Matthew's sentencing was delayed due to concerns about his mental competency. He claimed he was not mentally competent to understand the proceedings and was experiencing hallucinations. However, jail staff and an independent expert found him competent, and the judge proceeded with the sentencing.
