SALEM, Mass. — A male professor was stabbed on Salem State's campus Wednesday afternoon by a senior at the university.
WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE STABBING
Detectives worked two different scenes Wednesday, the first at the Meier Building, where police said the suspect, later identified as 24-year-old Stephen Chastain, stabbed the male professor in the back of the neck.
When Chastain made his first court appearance Thursday, prosecutors said he stabbed the professor 23-30 times after attacking and strangling him in bathroom.
"When he woke up, he was able to get to his feet, however the defendant began to stab him in the chest, arms, neck and hands," a prosecutor told the judge. "The victim ended up being stabbed, the nurse approximated, 23 to 30 times."
Prosecutors said after Walker yelled for help, "...witnesses came to assist, one being actually a first responder, an EMT who happened to be in the hallway. She was able to get the victim outside of the building."
According to prosecutors, witnesses chased Chastain from the building and watched as he took off clothing. Then they flagged down police.
"There was a question as to competency and responsibility and under Massachusetts law, and that's gotta be looked into," said Chastain's defense attorney Rebecca Whitehall.
Investigators said the suspect was caught a short distance later on Loring street, where FOX25's cameras saw detectives gathering up pieces of clothing.
Salem State Spokesperson said the professor suffered a superficial wound to the back of his neck and the injuries are non life-threatening.
What led up to the stabbing is still under investigation.
WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE SUSPECT
Chastain was taken to Salem Hospital for precaution and observation. He faces charges of attempted murder and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.
Salem State said Thursday that Chastain didn't know the professor. The school said it appeared to be a random attack.
Chastain's mother had no comment outside of court, but his attorney told Fox 25, "They're family and they're devastated, as all of you would be if your son was in this difficult situation."
Chastain appeared in court Thursday, but his face was obscured by a shade.
A court-appointed psychiatrist said Chastain has prior psychiatric history, disturbed sleep, hallucinations, and has tried to injure himself in the past.