The Little Rock Police Department confirmed that the anchorwoman who was assaulted earlier this week died Saturday night as a result of the wounds, after battling for nearly a week. Doctors pronounced Anne Pressly's death at 7:07 p.m., an e-mail from the LRPD states.
In a statement, Anne Pressly's parents, George and Patti Cannady, of South Carolina, confirmed the former KATV-TV, Channel 7, employee's death.
"We are profoundly saddened to tell you that our dear Anne has lost her struggle for life. It was our hope, as was yours, that Anne would overcome the injuries inflicted upon her in the brutal attack at her home," the couple wrote in a release. "We were with her in her last moments, and although our hearts are broken, we are at the same time comforted by our faith knowing that Anne is now with our Heavenly Father."
Pressly died at St. Vincent's Infirmary Medical Center in Little Rock. Reports have stated that Pressly received serious wounds during an assault at her home in the Heights region of Little Rock. The assault took place either late Sunday or early Monday, according to police reports. Patti Cannady found Pressly at about 4:30 a.m. Monday after her daughter did not answer a wake up call. Patti Cannady regularly called to wake her daughter, who hosted "Daybreak" on the ABC affiliate.
The Cannadys said the support that flowed in after the assault has helped them get through the situation.
"The outpouring of compassion we have received is truly a testament to the way in which Anne hastouched so many people in a positive way. Thank you for your prayers and your many acts of kindness. We are greatful for the wonderful care Anne received from her doctors, nurses and others at St. Vincent," the release states.
Sgt. Cassandra Davis of the LRPD, in an e-mail announcing Pressly's passing, said neither the family or department plan any announcements or statements before Monday.
"Our lives will not be the same without her. We ask that you continue to pray for us as we struggle to move forward without our dear sweet daughter. We also ask that you give us the privacy we need at this very difficult time," the Cannady's release states.
