A former mayor of Fall River, Will Flanagan, was stabbed on Monday at around 5 p.m. outside his cannabis dispensary, according to the Fall River Police Department. Flanagan, 45, was transported to the hospital in serious but stable condition after suffering “significant injuries”. The police department confirmed the incident occurred outside Cosmopolitan Dispensary, which Flanagan owns.
Police have arrested 31-year-old Corree Gonzales in connection with the stabbing. According to The Herald News, Gonzales has a history of arrests and is reported to have mental health issues. Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan expressed his concern for Flanagan’s well-being, stating, “My thoughts and prayers are with Former Mayor Will Flanagan, his family, and friends. The full support of the Mayor’s Office is with the Fall River Police Department as they work tirelessly to bring justice in this case.”
Flanagan, a former Democratic mayor of Fall River from 2010 to 2014, faced a recall election in 2014 after being accused of showing a gun to one of his political rivals, Jasiel Correia. This incident contributed to his recall and led to his removal from office. Despite this, he continued to be involved in local politics as a film performer and attorney.
Mayor Coogan also highlighted the challenges faced by the suspect, stating, “I’m not so much concerned about his criminal past, I’m concerned about his mental health and his ability to reintegrate into society.” The police chief, Kelly Furtado, emphasized the department’s commitment to justice, stating that they would “exhaust every resource” to ensure the case is fully investigated. The community has responded positively, with many expressing support for the police department and the victim’s family.
Additionally, the police department has received support from local officials who have expressed their solidarity with the investigation. The incident has also sparked discussions about the role of mental health services in preventing such incidents. Overall, the stabbing has become a focal point for discussions about public safety, mental health, and the justice system in Fall River.