On September 29th, my 79-year-old grandfather, Werner, a local Knoxville Zumba-enthusiast, was brutally attacked on his Saturday morning walk. He’s walked the Ten Mile Greenway every Saturday for the last fifteen years after his breakfast ritual at Panera.
The attacker jumped out from behind and stabbed him multiple times in the head, neck, and face. While trying to protect himself, he also sustained injuries on his hands. Thankfully, a jogger found him lying unconscious on the Greenway and contacted 9-1-1 –who transported him to UT Trauma center.
After hundreds of facial stitches, a broken finger/hand, and 30+ staples in his head during the longest day of his life, he was discharged to recover at home. He will undergo surgery on Thursday, October 4 due to hand injuries. Recovery (both emotionally and physically) will be a long journey, but along with the rest of our family and circle of friends, he’s grateful to be alive. We’re all so thankful for the outpouring of love from the community – including friends in Knoxville, and where he’s initially from in Connecticut. From meals to cards and deliveries, we’re deeply appreciative of the support. Because so many wanted to donate, this page can serve as a place to help Werner and his wife Philomena cover medical bills and associated expenses during his convalescence.
The Bossinger/Stierle/Glintenkamp families would like to thank everyone kind enough to request this page.

WVLT link: https://www.wvlt.tv/content/news/KPD-responds-to-assault-of-79-year-old-on-Knoxville-Greenway-494700511.html

WBIR link: https://www.wbir.com/article/news/crime/kpd-looking-for-suspect-who-attacked-man-from-behind-on-ten-mile-greenway/599386147