FLORISSANT, MO – A Florissant man is in custody after authorities say he shot a woman in the face as she tried to end their relationship, leaving her with devastating injuries and a lengthy road to recovery.

Police in the St. Louis suburb responded to a home on Old Jamestown Road just before 3:45 a.m. on Jan. 30, where they found the severely injured victim, identified by family as Heather Siorek. Officers arrested 49-year-old Anthony Schanuth at the scene. He faces charges of first-degree domestic assault and armed criminal action, according to St. Louis County jail records.

Investigators believe the confrontation erupted that night when Siorek, intent on leaving Schanuth, packed her belongings and declared her plan to move out. Relatives say Schanuth allegedly retaliated by firing a shotgun at her as she tried to escape, causing catastrophic wounds to her face and neck.

Siorek survived the attack but suffered extreme damage, including the loss of her jaw and shattered neck bones, according to family members. In addition to the gunshot injury, she also sustained a defensive wound while trying to shield herself.

Despite her critical condition, Siorek was conscious when first responders arrived. She remains in intensive care at a local hospital, sedated and unable to speak, but able to communicate with her loved ones through written notes. One note, family say, expressed her determination to survive for the sake of her three children.

Friends and relatives describe Siorek as a devoted mother, with one child who has special needs and relies on her deeply. As she undergoes facial reconstructive surgeries, supporters have launched an online fundraiser to assist with mounting medical costs.

Authorities say Schanuth remained at the scene following the shooting, and allegedly waited while Siorek was gravely wounded before stepping outside. He is currently being held at the St. Louis County Justice Center on $500,000 bond, awaiting further legal proceedings.

Neighbors and relatives expressed shock at the violence, saying there had been no indication that the relationship—which had lasted less than a year—would turn so dangerous. Family members admit they underestimated the risks involved.

Police continue to investigate the case as Siorek’s recovery continues. The incident has prompted renewed calls for awareness and action on the dangers of domestic violence in the community.

Legal proceedings for Schanuth are ongoing. No trial date has been set as of Wednesday.