RivCo Police Officer Stabbed During Altercation In Palm Springs

PALM SPRINGS, CA — A Palm Springs police officer was stabbed during an altercation on Tuesday afternoon that resulted in the arrest of a 41-year-old man, authorities said.

Police were called to the 1500 block of North Sunrise Way in the city, where officers found a man who had reportedly been causing a disturbance.

The man, identified as Philip Smith, refused to leave the premises, according to the Palm Springs Police Department.

During initial contact, Smith pulled out a knife and stabbed one officer in the hand in what officers said was an "unprovoked" assault. Officers say they used minimal force to subdue Smith and take him into custody without further incident.

The officer was taken to a hospital for treatment. His condition is stable and he is expected to recover.

Smith was arrested and is facing charges, which include assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer. More charges may be added as the investigation unfolds, the department said.

"This incident serves as a solemn reminder of the unpredictable and often dangerous situations law enforcement officers face each day while protecting our community," the department wrote on Facebook.