Eleven people were stabbed at a homeless shelter in Salem, Oregon, on Sunday evening. Police arrested a suspect shortly after the incident, which took place around 7:15 PM at the Union Gospel Mission facility. The assailant was not publicly identified right away.
First responders rushed the victims to a local hospital with various injuries. According to reports, at least one person was seen bleeding heavily. The shelter’s executive director, Craig Smith, mentioned that the attacker had stayed at the facility the night before and was preparing to check in for a second night when a dispute broke out.
Something triggered the attack, and the suspect allegedly had a knife in his bag. Among the wounded was a mission employee, along with ten guests from the shelter—nine of whom were staying overnight and one participating in a long-term recovery program. The assault unfolded in both the day room and outside the building, with security footage capturing the entire ordeal.
Eyewitness Bobby Epperly described the chaos, saying, “It’s like a horror movie,” as he recalled seeing blood everywhere. Following the attack, cellphone videos shared on social media showed police arresting the suspect. Officers ordered a shirtless man to the ground, while bystanders reacted with shock.
The Union Gospel Mission aims to help individuals overcome homelessness through Christian support. Founded by a group of businesspeople, it offers counseling and can house about 150 people nightly. The facility that was attacked opened its doors in 2021 and spans 50,000 square feet, located directly across from the Salem police department.
Mass violence in the U.S. often involves shootings, but stabbings are also a significant concern, as highlighted in various studies. Recent data from the Washington Post notes that stabbings represent a notable percentage of mass attacks. Understanding these events is crucial for communities and policymakers, as the responses to violence continue to evolve.
As the investigation continues, the shelter’s future operations remain uncertain. The building was closed on Monday, but officials hope to reopen it soon, continuing their mission to provide refuge in tumultuous times.
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