Eleven individuals were stabbed at a church-run homeless shelter in Oregon late Sunday evening, as reported by authorities. Among the wounded were staff members at the Union Gospel Mission in Salem, with at least one employee sustaining injuries during the incident that occurred around 7:15 p.m. The victims were promptly transported to a Salem hospital to receive treatment for a range of injuries.
The suspect, who is currently in custody, had only recently arrived at the mission the night before the attack. As the individual was preparing to check into the 150-person ministry for a second night, a confrontation ensued, leading to the violent altercation. Executive Director Craig Smith of the Union Gospel Mission stated that something triggered the suspect, prompting them to retrieve a knife from their bag.
According to Smith, the entire incident was captured on video surveillance, with all footage being shared with law enforcement for further investigation. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and authorities are working to piece together the events that transpired at the homeless shelter.
The shocking nature of the stabbing has left the community in disbelief, with local media outlets reporting on the devastating incident. Police swiftly responded to the scene, and the injured individuals were provided with immediate medical attention. As the investigation unfolds, more details are expected to emerge regarding the circumstances surrounding the violent assault.
The Union Gospel Mission serves as a sanctuary for those experiencing homelessness, offering shelter, food, and support services to those in need. The safety and well-being of its residents and staff are of utmost importance, and efforts are being made to ensure that such a tragic event does not occur again in the future.
In light of this harrowing incident, the community has come together to offer support and assistance to those affected by the stabbing. As the victims recover from their injuries, the Union Gospel Mission continues to provide vital resources to individuals experiencing homelessness, reaffirming its commitment to serving the most vulnerable members of society.
