Worcester, MA (February 6, 2012) - On Monday, February 6, 2012 at approximately 8:00 AM Worcester Police responded to 53 May Street for a report of a female that had been stabbed. Arriving officers observed a 43 year old female lying on the floor of the front porch to the May Street home suffering from multiple stab wounds. The victim was conscious and alert.

Officers at the scene were able to follow a blood trail that lead to the landlord’s apartment. Police knocked on the door of apartment 2B. A male occupant identified as 53 years old William James answered the door and allowed the officers inside. While inside officers observed evidence that suggested a recent struggle had occurred. The apartment was secured while detectives applied for a search warrant. Mr. James was transported to police headquarters to be interviewed. During the interview detectives where able to learn that the victim and Mr. James got into a verbal argument which escalated into a physical altercation and at one point she was stabbed at least twice.

Detectives went to U-Mass Hospital (university campus) to check on the condition of the victim. Upon arrival the officers met hospital personnel. Hospital officials informed the detectives that the victim had suffered three stab wounds to the chest. At the time that the officers were there the victim was in emergency surgery as her injuries were considered life threatening, she is currently listed in critical condition.

Based on information obtained from Mr. James, witnesses and evidence at the scene, Mr. James was arrested and charged with Assault and Battery with a dangerous Weapon (knife) and Armed Assault with the Intent to Murder. Mr. James was arraigned at the Worcester County District Courthouse this afternoon.

www.worcesterma.gov/police