A mass stabbing unfolded in Northeast Washington, D.C., leaving six people injured in what authorities have described as a random, substance-fueled attack.
The suspect, who was apprehended by D.C. police shortly after the incident, allegedly stabbed four women and two men before turning the knife on himself. The chaotic scene has raised concerns about public safety and mental health in the nation’s capital.
According to reports from Fox News, the suspect was arrested on Montpello Avenue NE after a swift response from law enforcement.
D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith stated that the individual appeared to be in an “altered mental state” induced by an unknown substance, which may have fueled the violent outburst.
The suspect’s self-inflicted wounds further complicated the situation, though he was taken into custody and is receiving medical attention.
The Washington Post reported that the victims, all innocent bystanders, were attacked seemingly at random as they went about their day.
Emergency services transported the injured—four women and two men—to nearby hospitals, where they were listed in stable condition. Authorities have called the assault “senseless,” emphasizing that there was no apparent motive or connection between the suspect and the victims.
CNN highlighted the scale of the incident, noting that it unfolded in broad daylight, sending shockwaves through the Northeast D.C. community.
Witnesses described a frantic scene as the suspect wielded a knife, targeting anyone in his path. “It was like he didn’t even see who he was hitting,” one onlooker told reporters. “He just kept going until the police showed up.”
The Associated Press added that the suspect’s erratic behavior, including stabbing himself, has led investigators to explore whether synthetic drugs or other substances played a role.
Chief Smith declined to speculate on the specific substance pending toxicology results but underscored the growing challenge of substance-related crimes in urban areas.
This incident comes at a time when D.C. has been grappling with rising concerns over violent crime.
Reuters noted that local leaders are now facing renewed pressure to address both public safety and mental health resources in the wake of the attack.
Community members expressed outrage and fear, with some calling for increased police presence in the affected neighborhood.
