Warrant issued in stabbing

Published 11:30 am Wednesday, September 23, 2015

A warrant was issued Wednesday morning for a man wanted in connection with Friday morning’s stabbing outside a residence in southern Albert Lea.

Erik Jeremy Hernandez, 39, of Albert Lea, allegedly stabbed a 29-year-old man in the back during an argument at 1206 St. Joseph’s Ave.

A witness to the incident described the knife as 4 or 5 inches long with a black handle, according to the Freeborn County District Court complaint filed Wednesday.

Email newsletter signup

Hernandez is charged with one count of second-degree assault.

Officers arrested Adam Ly Haas, 23, on Saturday for aiding and abetting second-degree assault in connection with the alleged incident.

Erik J. Hernandez

Erik J. Hernandez

Haas allegedly engaged in a verbal altercation with the alleged victim and several other people over Haas parking his vehicle in front of the victim’s residence. He reportedly later left the scene, then returned with Hernandez.

According to court documents, the alleged victim told police he had walked down the steps to talk to Hernandez, and Hernandez swung at him. The alleged victim said he attempted to grab Hernandez before he was cut.

Hernandez and Haas reportedly fled the scene before officers arrived. Officers located and spoke with Haas after the incident but were unable to find Hernandez.

Anyone with information as to Hernandez’s location is advised to contact the Albert Lea Police Department.

The alleged victim reportedly sustained non-life threatening injuries from what was described as a “slash-like” wound, according to court records.

Hernandez reportedly has had 17 prior warrants since 2001.

If convicted, Hernandez faces a maximum sentence of seven years in prison and a $14,000 fine.

Police were still looking for Hernandez as of press time.

Look to the Tribune as more information becomes available.

About Sam Wilmes

Sam Wilmes covers crime, courts and government for the Albert Lea Tribune.

email author More by Sam