New Bedford Police Arrest Juvenile in Triple Stabbing Near Whaling City Festival

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — New Bedford Police have arrested a juvenile in connection with the triple stabbing that took place in the area of Buttonwood Park following the Whaling City Festival on Saturday night.

Juvenile Facing Attempted Murder Charges

Police said the juvenile is being charged with assault with intent to murder, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury, and possession of ammunition without an FID card. They are not being identified due to their age.

The juvenile was arraigned today and held pending a dangerousness hearing. Police said the suspect is currently in the custody of the Department of Youth Services.

READ MORE: Three Stabbed After Fight Near New Bedford's Whaling City Festival

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Fight Occurred Outside Festival Perimeter

Three people were stabbed at around 8:45 p.m. on July 11 after a fight that New Bedford Police said broke out at the festival and then carried out into the area outside its gates. They were taken to St. Luke’s Hospital and their conditions and identities have not been released.

Calls for Major Festival Security Overhaul

Whaling City Festival President Michael Sylvia said on WBSM’s SouthCoast Now with Chris McCarthy on July 13 that the festival organizers are considering a range of security upgrades for the festival including fencing, cameras, metal detectors and more.

READ MORE: Whaling City Festival Organizers Eyeing Security Upgrades After Triple Stabbing

City Councilor at Large Brian Gomes has also filed a motion to request that Sylvia, Police Chief Jason Thody, and others come before the council’s public safety committee to address increasing security for the event.

Police said the investigation into the triple stabbing remains active and ongoing.