FLORISSANT, MO – A local woman is fighting for her life after a terrifying attack allegedly carried out by a man she had been dating, as details emerge about the ordeal and the challenges she now faces.
Heather Siorek, a mother of three, remains hospitalized in intensive care following the violence that unfolded late on January 30 in her Old Jamestown Road home. Authorities allege that Anthony Schanuth, 49, fired a shotgun at close range, causing catastrophic injuries to Siorek’s face and neck just as she attempted to leave the relationship.
Family members say Siorek, who prioritized her children’s safety, had planned a late-night escape after a period of unease. However, the plan was discovered and ended in violence. According to relatives, she sustained life-altering injuries, including the destruction of her right jaw and major wounds to her neck. Hospital officials have described her condition as critical but stable.
Despite the severity of the attack, Siorek’s determination has remained constant. Relatives report that she survived the initial trauma and has since become alert and responsive, even as she cannot speak due to her injuries. Communicating through notes, Siorek assured her friends and family that her greatest concern has always been her three children and that she refused to leave them motherless.
The woman’s family says the alleged attack left her not only with devastating facial wounds but also with signs she tried to defend herself. She is expected to undergo several reconstructive surgeries in the coming weeks and faces a lengthy recovery process. Friends and loved ones have started an online fundraiser to help cover mounting medical expenses.
Those close to Siorek describe her as a devoted mother, especially attentive to her child with special needs, and someone known for her generosity and warmth. Family members say they were shocked by the violence, noting that Siorek and Schanuth had dated for less than a year. They also expressed sadness and disbelief at how quickly events escalated.
Authorities responded to the Old Jamestown Road residence in the early morning hours after receiving reports of a shooting. Police say they found Siorek critically injured inside the home. Schanuth was arrested at the scene minutes later and remains in custody at the St. Louis County Justice Center, held on a $500,000 bond. Investigators have charged him with first-degree domestic assault and armed criminal action.
In the aftermath, community members are rallying around Siorek and her family, offering donations and messages of support. Loved ones are focusing on her strength and resilience during her recovery.
As Siorek continues to heal, family and friends say they hope her story raises awareness about the dangers that can accompany domestic violence, especially when victims make efforts to leave abusive relationships. For now, they remain hopeful as she faces months of surgeries, rehabilitation, and the path to regaining her health.