Tennessee Woman Attacked With Hammer Just 30 Minutes After Police Helped Her Get Protection Order

A Tennessee woman was left with severe injuries to her head and face after her former boyfriend allegedly attacked her with a hammer shortly after police helped her obtain legal protection against him.

Bailey Perger was at her Nashville home on October 17, 2026, after reporting threatening messages and an argument with her ex-boyfriend, Ross Peterson, 38. Officers assisted her in obtaining a harassment warrant and an order of protection before driving her home.

But the situation reportedly escalated again within minutes.

According to police, Peterson returned to the residence a short time after officers left and appeared to vandalize Perger’s car. When she went outside to confront him, investigators said, he allegedly attacked her with a hammer.

Officers returned to the property at approximately 7:15 a.m. and found Perger lying in her backyard with extensive injuries to her head and face. Police recovered a hammer from the scene as evidence and alleged that Peterson also took her cellphone before leaving.

Perger’s father, Jeremy, described the devastating aftermath and said he had believed his daughter would be safe after police helped her obtain legal protection.

Her mother later shared that Perger underwent facial surgery and faces a long recovery. The injuries have left her family worried about her health, future and ability to return to everyday life.

Authorities issued warrants charging Peterson with aggravated assault, harassment and theft of property. Police initially appealed to the public for help locating him, and subsequent reports said he was arrested in Arkansas.

The case has drawn attention to the dangers victims can face when threats escalate into violence, even after they seek help from law enforcement and pursue legal protection.

An order of protection can provide important legal safeguards, but this case highlights the challenges of preventing further violence when an alleged abuser returns. The charges against Peterson remain allegations unless and until established in court.

Source: PEOPLE