Skip to main content
willie_murphy_makes_international_news.jpg

WILLIE MURPHY MAKES INTERNATIONAL NEWS

MAPLEWOOD MEMBER’S BRAVE ACTIONS GETS ATTENTION OF MEDIA ACROSS THE GLOBE

About five years ago, the world was introduced to Willie Murphy – the then 77-year-old power lifter. The YMCA of Greater Rochester has known Willie for close to a decade as a friend to everyone who walk through the doors at Maplewood Family YMCA.

This week, the world was reintroduced to Willie, when she made headlines again. On Thursday, November 21, a man broke into her home. She was able to call 911 before he got inside. Prior to police arriving, Willie was able to defend herself using her TV stand, a broom and bottle of soap.

Ms. Murphy standing shoulder to shoulder with Genesee Section Officers after an intruder attempted to break into her home. Ms. Murphy is tough as nails & fended off the intruder. Ms. Murphy standing with some of the officers that responded to her home. pic.twitter.com/1gr8KfWZ4d

— Rochester NY Police (@RochesterNYPD) November 25, 2019

The police were so impressed with what Willie had done, they asked for a picture with Willie. Willie credits her actions to the confidence she’s built coming to the Maplewood Y three days a week.

All major news networks – ABCCBSNBC – and large-scale print organizations – The Washington PostDaily NewsThe Washington Times – shared Willie’s story.

Here’s a look at just some of the places – here in Rochester and across the world – where you will find Willie’s story.

LOCAL

Democrat & Chronicle 

Spectrum News

13WHAM

NATIONAL

Fox & Friends

HLN

Essence Magazine

NPR

Late Night with Seth Meyers

International

BBC Radio

New Zealand Herald

Universo Online in Brazil

Categories