Medford, Oregon — A stabbing attack at the Union Gospel Mission homeless shelter in Salem on Sunday night left a dozen men injured, including two shelter staff members, according to police reports.
Authorities say a man armed with an eight-inch knife entered the shelter’s lobby around 7:15 p.m. and began stabbing multiple people. Several others were injured as they tried to intervene. After leaving the building, the suspect continued the assault on individuals sitting outside the shelter before police apprehended him across the street.
The Salem Police Department identified the suspect as 42-year-old Tony Williams. Officers arrested Williams shortly after the attack, which has left five victims hospitalized with serious injuries. The injured ranged in age from 26 to 57.
Police have not released a motive but stated the attack did not appear to specifically target homeless individuals.
Craig Smith, the executive director of the Union Gospel Mission, confirmed that two staff members remain among the hospitalized victims. In an online statement, Smith expressed shock and grief over the incident, emphasizing ongoing efforts to improve safety for guests and staff.
Williams reportedly traveled by bus from Portland to Deschutes County but disembarked in Salem on Saturday. He visited the shelter that day but did not stay overnight. The following evening, he returned shortly before the attack.
Witnesses described the chaotic scene as horrifying. Bobby Epperly, a shelter guest, said he saw the suspect screaming and wielding a knife outside before discovering the violence inside the building. Another bystander, Caleb Rennie, recorded the police arrest, noting the urgency and seriousness of the response as officers approached with guns drawn.
Mayor Julie Hoy expressed disbelief over the attack, focusing on the wellbeing of those injured and the community’s need to process the trauma.
The Union Gospel Mission provides shelter for up to 150 men each night, offering a vital refuge for Salem’s homeless population.