Tough-as-nails reporter Winnie Dortch is bravely sharing her story of survival after a harrowing domestic-violence ordeal that nearly cost her life. Dortch, now a reporter at WGN-TV in Chicago, recently opened up about her tumultuous relationship with her ex-high school sweetheart, Bryant Carter.
Their relationship began in 2018 and lasted six years, during which they welcomed a daughter named Kaelie. While Carter could be charming and funny at times, there was a dark side to him that manifested in violent outbursts and abusive behavior. Dortch recalls being subjected to verbal and physical abuse, including being punched, pushed, and choked. The abuse took a toll on her mental and emotional well-being, but she struggled to leave the relationship because she still loved him and wanted to keep their family together.
It wasn’t until Father’s Day in 2024 that Dortch found the courage to leave Carter and move out with her daughter. She landed a new job at WGN-TV in Chicago that September, which further angered Carter. In a terrifying incident outside a McDonald’s in Lakewood, Ohio, Carter attacked Dortch at knifepoint, leaving her with only minor scratches on her face.
The situation escalated on October 7, 2024, when Carter relentlessly rammed Dortch’s car with his vehicle after she dropped off Kaelie at daycare. He then pulled her out of the car at gunpoint, leading her to flee for her life. Tragically, Carter shot Dortch five times, including once in the mouth, before turning the gun on himself.
It took Dortch over a year to recover from the physical and emotional trauma of the attack. Despite the pain and suffering she endured, Dortch hopes that by sharing her story, she can inspire and empower others who have experienced similar situations to persevere and overcome.
“I feel a deep connection with victims of gun violence and shooting incidents because I have walked in their shoes,” Dortch said. Her resilience and courage in the face of adversity serve as a beacon of hope for those who are struggling to break free from abusive relationships and rebuild their lives.
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