He Cut Off a Teen’s Arms and Threw Her Down a Ravine — But She Climbed to Safety and Helped Catch Her Attacker

Mary Vincent’s Incredible Story of Survival and Justice

In 1978, a brutal attack on 15-year-old Mary Vincent by Lawrence Singleton shocked the world. Vincent, who had been hitchhiking near Modesto, California, was offered a ride by Singleton, a 51-year-old man. Despite her initial hesitations, Vincent accepted the ride, unaware of the horror that awaited her. Singleton assaulted her, severed both her arms with a hatchet, and left her in a ravine to die. However, Vincent’s fierce determination to survive and seek justice defied all odds.

Vincent’s resilience and will to live were nothing short of extraordinary. Despite her severe injuries, she packed dirt into her wounds to stem the bleeding and crawled up a 30-foot embankment from the ravine, naked and barely conscious. Miraculously, she managed to flag down a passing car, which led to her rescue. Her sheer strength and courage in the face of unimaginable adversity left a lasting impact on all who heard her story.

After being rushed to a nearby hospital, Vincent’s bravery continued as she assisted authorities in identifying and apprehending Singleton. Despite the trauma she endured, Vincent mustered the strength to testify in court against her attacker. Her unwavering resolve and refusal to be silenced played a crucial role in ensuring that justice was served. Singleton was convicted of attempted murder, mayhem, kidnapping, and multiple sexual assault charges, receiving a 14-year prison sentence.

The aftermath of Vincent’s ordeal saw her become a vocal advocate for victims of trauma and a catalyst for legislative change. Her advocacy led to the passing of the “Singleton bill” in California, which increased the maximum penalty for such heinous crimes. Vincent’s impact extended far beyond her own harrowing experience, shaping the legal landscape and providing a voice for those who had been silenced by violence.

Despite the physical and emotional scars left by the attack, Vincent’s resilience shone through as she rebuilt her life. Now a mother of two adult children, she resides in Washington State with her husband. A talented self-taught artist, Vincent channels her experiences into her art, creating empowering female figures and even designing her own prosthetic tools. Her journey from victim to survivor to advocate exemplifies the strength of the human spirit in the face of unspeakable tragedy.

Vincent’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of trauma and the resilience of the human spirit. Her courage in the face of unimaginable adversity continues to inspire and empower others to speak out against injustice. Through her advocacy and art, Vincent has transformed her trauma into a source of empowerment and hope, proving that even in the darkest of times, the light of resilience can shine through.

In a world where justice is often elusive, Mary Vincent’s story stands as a beacon of hope and determination. Her unwavering pursuit of justice and her commitment to helping others navigate their own trauma exemplify the power of one individual to spark meaningful change. Mary Vincent’s legacy is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering advocacy, reminding us all that in the face of darkness, there is always a glimmer of light.