MANITOU SPRINGS, CO — A suspected stabbing turned into a case of armed self-defense Tuesday evening after a man was reportedly attacked outside his home and responded by shooting his assailant.
According to an update from the Manitou Springs Police Department, officers and EMTs responded to a 911 call around 7 p.m. on March 25 in the area of Deer Path Avenue and Oklahoma Road. The caller reported being stabbed in the neck.
When first responders arrived, they located two injured individuals. One man had sustained stab wounds to the neck, and another had suffered gunshot wounds to the stomach and chest. Both were transported to the hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.
Investigators determined that the incident began when the suspect arrived at the victim’s residence and, while in the driveway, stabbed the resident in the neck. Despite the injury, the victim was able to retrieve a firearm and shoot the attacker twice in what authorities are describing as a self-defense response.
The suspect, who remains hospitalized, has been identified as the aggressor and is facing charges including criminal attempt to commit first-degree murder and first-degree assault. He will be booked into jail once released from medical care.
As of now, the stabbing victim is not facing any charges. Police have indicated that the evidence supports his actions as self-defense.
While the investigation remains ongoing, authorities believe the incident was tied to a marital or relationship-related dispute. All individuals involved have been accounted for, and officials have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the community.
This incident is a strong reminder of why many choose to carry a firearm not just out in public, but at home and around their property. Attacks can happen anywhere—even in your own driveway. Like a recent story we covered where a man was working on his car when he was suddenly attacked, this victim was fortunate to be armed and able to defend himself despite being seriously injured. Situational awareness and daily carry—even during routine tasks—can make all the difference when seconds count.
