WEST VALLEY CITY, UT – A small community in West Valley City found itself at the heart of a chilling episode as residents banded together to save a young boy from his mother’s alleged violent behavior. The seven-year-old, bleeding and desperate, sought refuge with neighbors after fleeing his home.
Debbie Allen, a resident, was taken aback when she discovered the boy at her door, asking for help. He claimed his mother had attacked him with a statue and tried to drown him. Allen immediately alerted the authorities, while another neighbor took steps to ensure the boy’s immediate safety.
The situation took an unexpected turn when the boy’s mother, 35-year-old Patrice Gustafson, also known by the name Patrice Garcia, entered Allen’s home without clothes. Gustafson was arrested soon after. The boy, who sustained head injuries necessitating staples, is now out of the hospital.
Allen expressed her relief that the boy survived the ordeal, underscoring the community’s commitment to child protection. She described the incident as frightening but reaffirmed her readiness to protect any child in need.
Gustafson faces serious charges, including aggravated child abuse, burglary, and disarming a police officer. Her arrest follows a guilty plea earlier this year to drug and obstruction charges.
This disturbing incident has left the neighborhood on alert but also united in its resolve to provide a secure environment for its children. Residents are thankful for the boy’s recovery and remain committed to community vigilance and support.