Attempted Murder, More Charges Filed In Pennypack Park Attacks: Police

PHILADELPHIA — Police in Philadelphia said they have arrested and charged a man in connection with a series of attacks in Pennypack Park.

According to police, Elias Diaz, 46, was taken into custody Sunday on the 2800 block of Winchester Avenue. He has been charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, and related crimes.

The incidents occurred Nov. 22, Nov. 24, and Nov. 25.

The first attack occurred at about 8:15 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 22 while the victim was running on the park's trail.

As the victim was running, the victim announced they were coming up on the suspect, who was on a bike. Police said the suspect became enraged, pulled out a machete-style knife, and slashed the victim's arms and hands.

The victim was taken to Nazareth Hospital for treatment.

Then at about 9 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 24 another person was attacked, apparently by the same man, police said.

The victim and another person were walking on the trail when the suspect came up to them while riding a bike. Police said the suspect attacked the victim with a large knife, causing injuries to his hands and arm.

The suspect rode off on the bike and the victim was treated at Jefferson Torresdale Hospital.

The third incident occurred at about 8:30 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 25, also on the trail.

Police said the victim was walking on the trail when she encountered the suspect, who police said became agitated and started yelling at her.

The suspect started to grab an object that was tied to the bike, but the victim ran from the area without suffering injuries.