Former Massachusetts Mayor Injured in Sudden Stabbing Outside Downtown Business

Authorities in Fall River, Massachusetts, have arrested a suspect following a violent stabbing that left former Mayor Will Flanagan seriously injured outside his downtown business Monday afternoon.

Surveillance Captures Attack

Police confirmed that Flanagan, who served as Fall River’s mayor from 2010 to 2014, was attacked near his business, the Cosmopolitan Dispensary, located on Hartwell Street. Newly released surveillance footage shows a man approaching Flanagan from behind and lunging at him multiple times around the head and neck.

In the chaotic moments captured on video, Flanagan can be seen attempting to fend off his assailant before falling to the sidewalk. The attacker then fled the scene on foot, leaving Flanagan bleeding and dazed. Nearby bystanders rushed to assist him and called for emergency help.

Flanagan was able to stagger toward a nearby apartment complex, where he awaited medical attention. Fall River Police and emergency responders arrived minutes later and transported him to a local hospital. Officials described his condition as serious but stable.

Suspect Taken into Custody

Police have identified the suspect as 31-year-old Corree Gonzales, a Fall River resident with a reported history of mental health issues. Gonzales was arrested early Tuesday morning after resisting authorities and allegedly assaulting several officers during the arrest. He now faces multiple charges, including assault and battery on law enforcement officers and charges related to the stabbing.

Authorities said Gonzales is scheduled for a court-ordered mental health evaluation before formal arraignment. Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan emphasized that the suspect was known to law enforcement and said the incident appears to be isolated rather than politically motivated.

Eyewitness Accounts

Witnesses described the attack as sudden and alarming. Karen Cange, who was nearby, said she saw the suspect walking erratically before targeting Flanagan. “He came up to the mayor and suddenly started stabbing him,” she said. “It all happened so fast. Flanagan tried to protect himself but fell to the ground. He was bleeding heavily but stayed calm and called 911.”

Other witnesses reported that Gonzales fled on foot and was later located through a combination of tips and surveillance footage.

Flanagan’s Background

Will Flanagan, 43, has been a lifelong Fall River resident. During his tenure as mayor, he focused on economic development and crime prevention. He is credited with revitalizing parts of the city’s business district but also faced political challenges, including a recall vote in 2014 that ended his term.

Since leaving office, Flanagan has pursued a career in law and business, opening the Cosmopolitan Dispensary in downtown Fall River. He has remained active in community initiatives and occasionally provides commentary for local media. Colleagues describe him as civic-minded and dedicated to the city.

Ongoing Investigation

Fall River Police Chief Roger Correia said detectives are reviewing additional surveillance footage from nearby businesses to track the suspect’s movements before and after the incident. “At this point, we believe Flanagan was the intended target,” Correia stated, “but there is no evidence suggesting the attack was politically motivated or premeditated.”

The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office has joined the investigation. Officials are reviewing all evidence before determining formal charges. Police have increased patrols in the downtown area as a precaution.

Community Response

The attack has sent shockwaves through Fall River. Mayor Coogan called the incident “deeply disturbing” and expressed gratitude for the quick actions of first responders and bystanders. Social media and local organizations have shown strong support for Flanagan and his family, while the Fall River Chamber of Commerce praised his continued contributions to the community.

The incident has also sparked renewed discussions about mental health services and public safety. Local business owners and residents highlighted the need for expanded outreach programs for individuals with untreated mental health conditions. Experts note that while violent acts are rare, they underscore the importance of accessible mental health care.

Recovery and Outlook

Hospital officials have not disclosed detailed updates on Flanagan’s condition, but sources indicate he is expected to make a full recovery. Family members thanked supporters for their concern and expressed optimism about his return to work. The Cosmopolitan Dispensary temporarily closed following the attack but is expected to reopen shortly.

Fall River residents are planning a candlelight vigil near City Hall to show solidarity with Flanagan and to promote community unity. Mayor Coogan emphasized the city’s resilience: “Fall River has faced challenges before, and we will face this together. Our community looks out for one another, and that’s what makes our city strong.”