Chicago attack victim makes improvement

A YOUNG Irish student left fighting for her life after being beaten in a brutal baseball bat attack is now in a serious condition in hospital.

Natasha McShane’s condition has improved, as she had been on the critical list in the Chicago hospital since the attack two weeks ago. The 23-year-old student was struck twice in the head as she walked with a friend after a night out in a neighbourhood on the northside of Chicago.

She is being treated at the Northwestern Memorial Hospital, nationally renowned for its treatment of brain injuries

Natasha’s friend, 23-year-old Stacy Jurich, has been released from hospital but is undergoing rehabilitation after being injured in the same attack.

Two people, 31-year-old Heriberto Viramontes and 25-year-old Marcy Cruz, have been charged with aggravated battery and armed robbery. Prosecutors have not ruled out bringing attempted murder charges.

The pair are due back in court on May 17.

Natasha, a UCD masters graduate from Silverbridge in South Armagh, has opened her eyes a number of times since coming out of a drug-induced coma but does not seem to recognise her surroundings or family.

Her parents, Liam and Sheila, have been at their daughter’s bedside since shortly after the April 23 attack.

Surgeons had to remove part of Natasha’s skull to relieve pressure.

A number of fundraisers are being organised to help the families of both Natasha and Stacy.