Being a reporter isn’t easy.  We see the worst in people day in and day out and report what we’ve learned.  Some people would much prefer the world not see them for who or what they are, what they’ve done and as such make threats and or attack the reporter who’s written about them or their friends.  Occasionally those attacks move beyond  writing letters, pointless empty threats on twitter and unkind phone calls and move into the world of physical assaults.  It is just such an attack that befell Reporter Vance Clayton only three days ago.

According to Mr. Clayton, whom is currently at home recovering from his attack, he opened the front door of his home and was immediately knocked out.  When he came to a leather clad figure stood over him demanding information on what happened to Fae Lucchesi, who “really” killed her and why.  What it was that gave this attacker the idea that Mr. Clayton was privy to this information is not currently known, though the attacker was quite adamant in his belief that the reporter was in the know.  When Mr. Clayton couldn’t answer the attacker’s questions  he was kicked repeatedly, his girlfriend threatened with both rape and a gruesome fiery death before eventually the attacker made his exit.

Without thought of his own injuries Mr. Clayton then texted his girlfriend Jennie to warn her, and only when the young woman made her way over to see to Mr. Clayton was 911 called.  First responder Mela Dylasari-Bellic and partner Matt arrived on scene, saw to Mr. Clayton’s injuries and transported him off to DEMH where he was treated for both a fractured jaw and torn MCL.  After  spending a couple nights in hospital the reporter was released and is back at home and healing nicely.  The attacker is still unknown, and police have little to go on.

Kahlen Vaniva, DE Daily Editor & Reporter