Police Officers Shot a 21-Year-Old Man in the Buttocks After He Allegedly Came at Them Brandishing a Knife

Salem Police officers shot a 21-year-old man in the buttocks after he allegedly came at two officers early Tuesday morning brandishing a knife several hours after he allegedly stabbed a man on Salem Street.

Officers were dispatched to 31 Salem St. for reports of a stabbing shortly before 2 Tuesday morning. They found a 34-year-old stabbing victim with wounds to his left forearm and neck area, according to authorities.

The victim was conscious and alert, and told officers that Brock Fleming, a man known to Salem Police, was the person who stabbed him. Police put out a Be-On-The-Lookout alert for Fleming, who officers knew lived in the north Salem area.

Officers found Fleming armed with a knife a few hours later on Walter Street in the city.

“Mr Fleming came at one of the officers with the knife forcing that officer to draw his weapon,” according to a statement by the Essex District Attorney’s office. “ Mr. Fleming then turned toward the other officer while holding the knife, approaching him in a threatening manner. The first officer then fired striking Mr. Fleming in the buttocks.”

Fleming, 21, was taken into custody and transported to an area hospital. He underwent surgery for the gunshot wound.

Fleming is charged with assault with intent to murder in connection to the stabbing on Salem Street, and two counts of assault by means of a dangerous weapon in connection with his actions on Walter Street, according to authorities.

The incidents are under investigation by the Essex County District Attorney’s office and the Massachusetts State Police.

The two officers were placed on temporary administrative leave in accordance with the Salem Police Department’s policy.

Photo Credit: Essex County District Attorney’s Office