4 Stabbed in Seemingly Random Attack at Cinco De Mayo Party

ABILENE, TX – An Abilene teen was arrested on Saturday night after police say he stabbed four random people at the St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Church. 

According to the Abilene Police Department, on Apr. 30, 2022, at around 9 p.m., officers with the APD responded to a call of multiple victims suffering from stab wounds in north Abilene. 

The initial reports indicated that a 19-year-old male stabbed multiple people at a Cinco de Mayo gathering on the grounds of St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Church located at 2525 Westview Drive.  

Officers responded to the scene and contacted off-duty Taylor County Deputies, who were working security at the event. The Deputies had taken the 19-year-old into custody after several citizens were involved in a struggle while restraining him.

It was determined one of the citizens sustained minor cuts and did not require transport to the hospital.
 
One victim was transported by ambulance and two others by private automobile to Hendrick Medical Center, for treatment of injuries. Two victims will be treated and released.

A third victim will be kept overnight for observation for more serious injuries. A fourth victim was discovered to have been punched by the suspect. He did not require medical attention.

The attacks appear to be random and the victims did not know the suspect.

The suspect, who appeared to be under the influence, was also taken to the hospital for observation. Upon release, he faces five counts of aggravated assault. 

“The Department is appreciative for the assistance from citizens who risked their lives to restrain this suspect,” stated Chief Marcus Dudley. “We are thankful for the Taylor County Sheriff’s Deputies who were on the scene and immediately handcuffed the assailant. Attacks that are random are senseless; but fortunately, the perpetrator is in custody.”

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with any information on this incident may call our Major Investigation, (325) 676-6610.