The man wasn't a killer.
His name was Michael Ross.
He was a retired security consultant hired secretly by Victoria's legal team after the threats against her began.
Earlier that evening, Michael had discovered signs of an intruder on the property.
The baseball bat wasn't intended as a weapon of attack.
It was meant for protection.
He had been searching the mansion when he heard Lily screaming.
Now, standing over Victoria's injured body, Michael realized his worst fear had become reality.
Someone had reached her first.
Someone had attacked the woman he was supposed to protect.
Michael immediately dropped to one knee.
"Lily, listen to me."
The girl remained terrified.
But something in his voice sounded sincere.
"I'm here to help."
Michael quickly called emergency services and reported the attack.
At the same time, he contacted authorities investigating the threats against Victoria.
The situation was far more serious than anyone initially realized.
Whoever attacked Victoria had planned everything carefully.
But they had made one critical mistake.
They left behind evidence.