A 27-year-old woman with spina bifida who uses a wheelchair thought she was simply inviting a man she met on Tinder over to her Mill Creek apartment for a casual movie night. Instead, she endured what prosecutors describe as a terrifying and violent sexual assault that has left her traumatized and the community outraged.

Matthew Walter Baird, 29, of Concrete, Washington, has been charged with multiple felonies including second-degree assault with sexual motivation, third-degree rape, and fourth-degree assault with sexual motivation following the alleged attack that occurred on May 30, 2025. He was arrested on May 18, 2026, after investigators linked him to the crime through DNA evidence and victim testimony.

According to court documents, the woman — who has very limited movement in her legs due to her condition — had been communicating with Baird on Tinder for several weeks before agreeing to meet in person. What began as what she believed was a low-key evening quickly turned into a nightmare when Baird allegedly became violent.

The victim told police she was unable to physically resist or escape due to her disability, making her particularly vulnerable during the assault. She reported being strangled and sexually assaulted in her own home, a place where she should have felt safe. The horror of the attack was compounded by her physical limitations, which prosecutors say made the crime even more heinous.

A Vulnerable Victim Targeted

The woman’s condition made her especially susceptible to harm. Spina bifida is a birth defect affecting the spine and spinal cord, often resulting in paralysis or weakness in the lower limbs. For someone already navigating daily life with significant mobility challenges, the alleged assault represented not just physical violence but a profound violation of trust and safety.

Investigators believe Baird may have specifically targeted vulnerable women through dating apps. Police have indicated they are looking into the possibility of additional victims, suggesting this may not be an isolated incident. The ease with which he allegedly carried out the attack has raised serious concerns about safety for disabled individuals using online dating platforms.

Baird was taken into custody after being released from jail in Whatcom County on similar charges, highlighting a troubling pattern of behavior. Court records show he has a history of legal issues, including prior allegations involving sexual misconduct.

Community Outrage and Calls for Justice

The case has sparked widespread anger and concern throughout the Pacific Northwest. Disability rights advocates have condemned the attack as a particularly cruel example of vulnerability being exploited. Many have called for better protections and awareness for disabled people navigating online dating and personal safety.

“This is every person with a disability’s worst fear realized,” said one local advocate. “When you already face daily barriers, the idea that someone would take advantage of that vulnerability is heartbreaking and infuriating.”

The victim has chosen to remain anonymous but has cooperated fully with investigators. Her bravery in coming forward has been praised by authorities, who hope her case will encourage other potential victims to speak out.

Mill Creek Police Department detectives worked diligently to build the case, collecting DNA evidence and conducting thorough interviews. The swift arrest of Baird has been credited to strong investigative work and the victim’s detailed account despite the trauma she endured.

A Warning for Online Daters

This disturbing case serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with meeting strangers from dating apps. While millions use platforms like Tinder safely every day, incidents like this highlight the importance of caution, especially for vulnerable individuals.

Safety experts recommend meeting in public places for first dates, informing friends or family of plans, and trusting instincts if something feels off. For people with disabilities, additional considerations — such as ensuring accessible locations and having support systems in place — are crucial.

The alleged actions of Matthew Walter Baird have not only shattered one woman’s sense of security but have also prompted broader conversations about consent, vulnerability, and the responsibilities of dating app companies to better protect users.

As the legal process moves forward, Baird faces significant prison time if convicted. Prosecutors say they will seek the maximum penalties possible given the aggravating factors, including the victim’s disability and the violation of her home.

For the 27-year-old survivor, the road to healing will be long and difficult. But her courage in reporting the crime may help prevent others from suffering similar fates. In the meantime, her story stands as a powerful call for greater awareness, stronger protections, and unwavering support for survivors of sexual violence — especially those who face additional challenges due to disability.

The community continues to rally around her, offering messages of solidarity and hope for justice. What began as an ordinary invitation to watch a movie ended in unimaginable horror — but it will not end without accountability.