A 13-year-old girl walking home in Carmel-by-the-Sea courageously fought off a sudden, violent assault using self-defense techniques she’d been training in for years.

Authorities say the girl used her three years of jiu-jitsu training to fend off an unidentified attacker who confronted her on May 6, leaving him injured before she escaped to safety, as the New York Post reports.

The incident took place in the quiet coastal town around the end of the school day. According to police, the teenage girl was walking home alone when a man abruptly emerged from between two parked vehicles and tried to punch her in the face.

Reacting quickly, the teen relied on her jiu-jitsu training, which she had been practicing under Sensei Michael Blackburn. With composure beyond her years, she blocked the initial strike and countered with a punch of her own.

That initial response escalated into a full self-defense engagement. Using a combination of techniques, the girl got the man into a headlock, delivered several knee strikes, pivoted to throw him onto the ground, and stepped on his foot in the process.

Defensive move leaves attacker injured

As the man was slammed to the ground, his foot, still under the girl’s, twisted unnaturally. Authorities believe this resulted in a broken ankle when his weight landed improperly. Dazed and likely injured, the man was left behind as the girl ran to the safety of her home.

Sensei Michael Blackburn, who has trained the teen for three years, said she did exactly what she had practiced. “She punched him, she got him in a headlock, kneed him a couple times, spun him around, threw him on the ground,” Blackburn said, emphasizing her ability to maintain control during the terrifying situation.

He added that during the throw, she had stepped on the man's foot. "When she threw him on the ground, he broke his ankle,” Blackburn stated, commending her for executing moves as she had been taught in class. “We were proud of her,” he said, “She did exactly as she was supposed to do.”

Suspect still at large

The attacker did not remain at the scene, and by the time police arrived, he had vanished. Carmel police released a composite sketch of the man and are urging the community to come forward with any tips. So far, no credible leads have developed in the investigation.

Authorities speculate that the man may have been under the influence of substances or experienced some type of emotional instability, based on his erratic behavior. Despite his apparent injury, the suspect managed to flee and has not yet been identified.

Commander Todd Trayer of the Carmel Police Department praised the girl's actions and clarity in the moment. “You don’t see it very often where a juvenile is brave like that,” Trayer said. “To have that type of self-confidence, that awareness, to be a quick decision maker and make a decision that’s going to keep themselves safe.”

Important message relayed

The teen involved has chosen to remain anonymous. However, she has shared that she hopes her story can be an inspiration to other girls and women. Her message is simple but powerful: learn how to defend yourself.

Her story has already resonated with many locally and online, prompting renewed interest in self-defense training, especially for young people. Sensei Blackburn emphasized that what his students practice in class is not just for show — it’s training for real-life scenarios.

“You have to fight in class like you’re going to protect yourself on the street,” he said. His words resonate even more strongly now, as the community reflects on just how significantly that mentality helped one young girl when it mattered most.

Lessons to learn from this tragedy

1. Self-defense training can be life-changing. As shown in this case, training in disciplines like jiu-jitsu can build not only strength but also confidence and quick decision-making abilities. Had the girl not been trained, the outcome could have been far different.

2. Awareness of surroundings is crucial. The suspect emerged suddenly from between two parked cars, which is a common tactic used by assailants. Staying alert to the environment, especially when walking alone, can help one react in time.

3. Crime can happen to anyone, anywhere. Though this was a peaceful neighborhood, danger appeared without warning. No precaution can guarantee safety, and we must resist blaming victims when crimes occur -- the responsibility always lies with the perpetrator.

Why this story matters

This incident serves as a stark reminder that violence can affect even the most ordinary moments, like walking home from school. It also showcases the power of preparation, courage, and community support in responding to such threats.

Moreover, the story has prompted discussion around educating young people, especially girls, on physical and situational self-defense. Community engagement and awareness are key in helping prevent and respond effectively to such incidents.