Columbia Police Department (CPD) Investigators have arrested an 18-year-old male in connection with a non-fatal stabbing of a 58-year-old man that occurred last night.
According to W.H. “Skip” Holbrook, Justin A.E. Reyes, is charged with Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature and Possession of a Weapon during a Violent Crime. At last check, Reyes remains housed at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center. A judge set a $10,000 bond with conditions to not have any direct or indirect contact with the victim. Reyes is also restricted from being near the victim’s home or place of worship and the incident location.
Incident Synopsis:
Shortly after 6:30 p.m., CPD investigators were initially dispatched to the 2700 block of Wheat Street for a disturbance, which was later upgraded by emergency dispatchers to a fight in progress.
When officers arrived on scene, they found the male victim with multiple stab wounds and immediately began rendering first aid before EMS arrival. At last check, the victim remains hospitalized in stable condition.
Preliminary Information:
CPD Investigators believe that the 58-year-old victim was walking his dog when Reyes committed an unprovoked stabbing on him. The two are not acquaintances.
During the stabbing, several witnesses heard the victim yelling, ran to help, and saw Reyes and the victim fighting. After the stabbing, the three men managed to subdue Reyes. During the arrest, officers seized a weapon from the crime scene.
The case is being investigated by the CPD’s Violent Crimes against Persons Unit (VCAP).
All persons arrested/charged are presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty in a court of law.