Assailant and victim didn’t know each other, police say

Burlington police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man suspected of stabbing a wheelchair-bound person in the face near Lake Street last month.

Police said the stabbing was reported at about 9:59 AM on Aug. 22. The victim told officers the attack occurred roughly 30 minutes earlier while the victim was on Lake Street near Depot Street.

Investigators determined the victim and suspect did not know each other, police said. The suspect apparently fled on foot and was last seen around 9:30 AM on Sherman Street near North Champlain Street.

Police described the suspect as a Black male with a thin beard who was wearing a light-colored shirt, dark pants, a light-colored durag and a crossbody bag. Police released images of the man in hopes someone will recognize him.

The victim was taken to the University of Vermont Medical Center for treatment and later released.

BPD is also asking any witnesses to contact Detective Webster at 802-540-2145. And, cellphone footage or photos can be uploaded to https://BurlingtonVT.Evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/26bu019754, or to the QR code below: