ASBURY PARK, N.J. — A beloved local photographer, Andrea Laign, was in critical condition at Jersey Shore University Medical Center following an unprovoked stabbing attack on Sunday, Sept. 24, police said.
Laign, described by friends as a talented artist and cherished member of Asbury Park’s creative community, was walking with a friend on the 500 block of Asbury Avenue, just four blocks from the boardwalk, when she was stabbed multiple times by a man at approximately 2:30 p.m. Police arrested the suspect, Travis A. Cavanaugh, 39, of Asbury Park, at the scene.
He has been charged with attempted murder and weapons possession and is being held at Monmouth County Jail.
The attack occurred in a residential area that includes Trinity Episcopal Church. Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the assault, which they say was entirely unprovoked.
Laign’s friends and supporters have started a fundraiser to help cover her medical and living expenses as she faces a long recovery. “It is devastating that this sweet, talented, light-filled soul is a victim of such a violent crime,” the fundraiser statement reads, urging the community to contribute and share.
Asbury Park residents expressed shock and sadness over the incident, rallying to support Laign as she fights to heal from her injuries.
She is now recovering at home, according to a recent update:
One last update for everyone asking. Andrea is home, and recovering, and as expected, her recovery will take some serious time but she is an absolute rock star and is coming along.
Please, continue to respect her need for privacy and rest, but know that she has read your messages and received your incredible generosity of love and vibes and money and prayers and cards. I’m so touched – but not surprised – at the way we pulled together as a community for her.
It’s exactly what she would have done for anyone else and always has. When she’s able, I know we will all continue to support her art and that will be a vital part of her journey to healing. Thank you, each and every one, who donated, shared, sent love, prayed, vibed, mowed the lawn and cared for her inner circle who has also suffered so much. May your kindnesses be returned to you a thousandfold.
Laign’s attack has shaken the tight-knit community, which is coming together to help her rebuild her life.
A GoFundMe campaign has raised $68,000 to help the family with medical bills and other expenses incurred by this senseless act of violence.
