Good Samaritan Slashed With Box Cutter While Coming To Aid Of Woman In Bristol: Police

BRISTOL, CT — A man was slashed across the chest with a box cutter in Brackett Park Wednesday after he rushed to help a woman who was being attacked, police said.

Lt. Vllaznim Sadriu said police received a call reporting a fight at the park shortly before 6 p.m. The caller indicated one of the individuals may be armed with a knife.

When police arrived, they saw two men fighting, and they intervened to stop it.

According to police, an investigation showed Joseph Cupe, 62, of Chestnut Street, Bristol, had been assaulting a woman in the park when a male bystander intervened to stop the attack.

Police said Cupe became agitated and then used a box cutter to slash the male victim across the chest.

The man was transported to an area hospital for treatment. Police said his injuries were not believed to be life-threatening.

Cupe was charged with first-degree assault, second-degree breach of peace, and first-degree reckless endangerment. He is being held on a $100,000 bond.

According to police, the female involved in the initial assault left before police arrived, and they have not been able to find her. Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying her, both to ensure her safety and to help the ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Duncan at 860-584-3011.