Former Fall River Mayor Survives Sudden Stabbing Outside Dispensary

Fall River, Massachusetts — Former Fall River Mayor Will Flanagan was hospitalized Monday evening after being violently attacked outside his downtown business, according to local authorities. The incident unfolded near the Cosmopolitan Dispensary, a cannabis shop Flanagan owns, located on Hartwell Street.

Police confirmed Tuesday that 31-year-old Corree Gonzales had been arrested in connection with the stabbing. Gonzales, a local resident with a reported history of mental health issues, was scheduled to undergo a court-ordered mental health evaluation following his detention. Flanagan’s condition was described as serious but stable.

Surveillance footage released by authorities provides a clear view of the sudden assault. The video shows Gonzales approaching Flanagan from behind before striking toward his head and neck. Flanagan attempts to defend himself, raising his arms, but he is knocked to the ground. The attacker then flees across the street, leaving the former mayor bleeding on the sidewalk. Despite his injuries, Flanagan managed to get to his feet and staggered toward a nearby apartment complex, where bystanders called for help.

Witness Karen Cange, who observed the attack firsthand, described the chaotic scene. “He was mumbling to himself, came up to Flanagan, and started stabbing him in the face and neck. He was bleeding everywhere,” she said. “Flanagan called 911 immediately. He stayed calm despite what happened. I hope he recovers fully — he’s a good man.”

Police responded swiftly, arriving on the scene within minutes. Gonzales was taken into custody early Tuesday morning. During his arrest, officers report that he resisted and assaulted multiple law enforcement personnel, resulting in four counts of assault and battery on a police officer in addition to the stabbing charges. He pleaded not guilty at his arraignment and remains held without bail.

Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan addressed the incident at a press conference, noting that Gonzales was previously known to authorities for mental health struggles. “We do not have evidence suggesting a prior relationship between the suspect and former Mayor Flanagan. This may have been a random act,” Coogan stated.

Court records indicate that Gonzales has a prior criminal history and was listed as homeless during arrests in 2024. Earlier reports describe him allegedly threatening family members, with his mother telling officers he had struggled with mental illness since his teenage years.

Flanagan, 43, served as mayor of Fall River from 2010 to 2014. His tenure was marked by efforts to revitalize the city’s business district and initiatives aimed at crime prevention. Though his time in office included controversies and a recall effort in 2014, he remained active in civic life after leaving politics. Beyond running the Cosmopolitan Dispensary, he has pursued legal work and continues to participate in local community projects.

Residents and former colleagues expressed shock at the attack. “It’s heartbreaking that this happened right outside his business,” said a former city council member. “Will has always been committed to the city. The community is hoping for his full recovery.”

Police are continuing their investigation, reviewing additional surveillance footage and seeking to determine the suspect’s movements before and after the attack. Authorities have emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public, though patrols around downtown Fall River have been increased as a precaution.

The incident has reignited discussions in the city about mental health care and public safety. Local leaders and residents have highlighted the challenges of addressing untreated mental illness and the need for community-based interventions to prevent violent episodes. Experts note that while violent incidents involving individuals with severe psychiatric conditions are rare, their impact can be significant when they occur.

Flanagan’s recovery is reportedly progressing well, though hospital officials have not released further medical details. His family issued a statement thanking the community and first responders for their swift actions. “Will is grateful for the support from friends, family, and the Fall River community. He is focused on recovering and looks forward to returning to his work and daily life,” the statement read.

The Cosmopolitan Dispensary remained closed briefly following the attack but is expected to reopen later this week. Meanwhile, residents have organized a candlelight vigil near City Hall to show solidarity with Flanagan and raise awareness about community safety.

For Fall River, a city with a long history of resilience, the attack serves as a stark reminder of how sudden violence can impact even familiar neighborhoods. Local leaders stress the importance of community support and vigilance, emphasizing that collective effort remains central to the city’s strength and recovery.