Southern California life coach Cassandra Light is recovering after surviving a harrowing attempted carjacking in Tijuana, Mexico, approximately one month ago. The incident occurred as Light was driving home from a beach trip.
Light reported that an assailant fired multiple shots at her vehicle. One bullet penetrated the driver's side window, traveled through the car, and exited through the passenger door. A second bullet struck Light in the lower leg, shattering her tibia and fibula before exiting and hitting her ankle. She was thrown from the vehicle as a result of the impact.
Light described her golden retriever, Ellie, as a constant source of comfort. The dog remained in the car and, upon Light's collapse from her injuries, jumped out of the window to be with her owner. Ellie accompanied Light in the ambulance and stayed by her side during emergency surgeries and her recovery.
Two unknown women provided immediate assistance, with one applying a tourniquet to control the bleeding until emergency personnel arrived. Light was transported from a Tijuana hospital to one in San Diego. She has since undergone multiple surgeries to repair the damage to her leg, which required the insertion of a metal plate, rod, and screws.
Her recovery is expected to be extensive, involving months of physical therapy to regain the ability to walk. Light noted the difficulty of being unable to work and help others while facing her own challenges. She and Ellie have been recognized for their calm presence, with suggestions that Ellie be trained as a therapy dog to bring comfort to others experiencing trauma.
The financial impact of the incident, including medical bills, lost income, legal fees, and rehabilitation costs, has been significant for Light. The California Post has reached out to San Diego officials for additional information.