PORTLAND, Ore. – A car prowler who broke into a vehicle Wednesday night stabbed the vehicle’s owner during a confrontation in Southeast Portland, police said.
Police believe the victim confronted the suspect, 31-year-old Justin K. Sennert, after the break-in near Southeast 92nd Avenue and Flavel Street. Sennert allegedly stabbed the man and ran away just after 11 p.m.
"Snatched up his wallet and they chased after him and when he asked for his wallet back the guy stabbed him in the abdomen," said Noralee Nolan, who lives in the condos nearby.
A police K-9 found Sennert hiding in brush. Officers took Sennert to a hospital after he told them he swallowed an unknown substance. Sennert was later booked into jail on charges of first-degree robbery and second-degree assault. He also had outstanding warrants for heroin and methamphetamine possession.
"I'm glad the cops were able to catch him, usually they don't catch them in this case they did," Nolan said.
The victim’s wound was serious, but not life-threatening, according to police. His name was not released.