3-Year-Old Wakes Week After Sunset Park Hammer Attack; Son Recovers

SUNSET PARK, NY — A 3-year-old girl opened her eyes for the first time this week after the brutal Sunset Park hammer attack left her fighting for life, her mother dead and her brother critically wounded, a local organization helping the family says.

The 3-year-old awoke Tuesday, about a week after the assault in the 52nd Street apartment her family shared with roommate, and suspected attacker, Liyong Ye, according to the Parent Child Relationship Association.

Their mother, Zhao Zhao, 43, died the same day.

The 3-year-old and her 5-year-old brother have "not given up," and now that the little girl is awake, she can undergo testing necessary to move her condition forward.

Her 5-year-old brother continued down his path to recovery in the regular hospital ward — and he's asking about his sister, advocates said.

"Both siblings are going through so much, but their care and concern for each other are evident," advocates said on a GoFundMe that had raised nearly $190,000.

"We can only hope that the siblings get well soon and get through this trauma."

The little boy still can't feel parts of his body, but he has been able to move his face.

He was slated to receive a safety helmet Thursday so he could have more mobility despite his head injuries.

The 5-year-old has come a long way since he was in the intensive care unit, unable to recognize his father, just days ago.

Advocates were collecting cards and notes to the children at their office at 909 58th Street, between Ninth Avenue and Fort Hamilton Parkway.

The association said, "Every message, every donation, and every kind thought helps [the children] move forward on this journey of healing and hope."