Joliet Stabbing Victim In Serious Condition: Police Say Attacker Knew His Victim

JOLIET, IL — The Joliet Police Department announced that someone wielding a knife approached a 45-year-old man and stabbed him. Police said the victim was taken to St. Joe's hospital in serious condition, although officers learned on Thursday that the victim has improved. He's now in stable condition and his wounds are no longer life threatening.

The attack happened around 4:45 p.m. Wednesday on the city's southeast side. This area of Joliet has had multiple violent crimes, including homicides, over the years.

According to Joliet police spokesman Dwayne English, officers responded to the area of McDonough Street and South Ottawa Street for the stabbing.

At the scene, officers found the 45-year-old man with multiple stab wounds to his body. Officers provided medical aid until the arrival of paramedics.

The stabbing victim was rushed to St. Joseph Medical Center by the Joliet Fire Department with serious injuries.

"The victim was approached by an adult male, who then stabbed him multiple times. Detectives believe the suspect and victim knew one another and that this was a targeted attack," English said.

He said officers and detectives conducted a thorough canvass of the area.

The person responsible for the crime managed to escape, and Joliet police had not made an arrest as of 9 p.m.

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Joliet Police Department Investigation Division at 815-724-3020. They can also contact Will County Crime Stoppers at 800-323-6734 or online if they wish to remain anonymous, English advised.