Hammer attack suspect Kenneth Jackson

Photo courtesy EPPD

EAST PROVIDENCE — East Providence Police have arrested a city man on multiple charges stemming from a violent attack on Wednesday, July 5, involving a hammer.

The suspect, identified as 47 year-old Kenneth Jackson, was arraigned Thursday, July 6, and also sent to hospital for a mental health evaluation.

According to the report of EPPD Public Information Officer Captain Michael Rapoza, officers were dispatched to the parking lot of Shaw’s Supermarket on Willett Avenue following a report of a disturbance involving a man with a hammer.

Once on scene, officers observed a 74-year-old man, later deemed to be an East Providence resident, suffering from serious injuries to his head. Witnesses told officers that a male suspect attacked the victim with a hammer. Bystanders were able to wrestle the hammer away from the suspect to prevent further injury to the victim.

The victim was transported to Rhode Island Hospital to be treated for head injuries sustained in the attack. At last check, Rapoza said the victim was still being treated at Rhode Island Hospital.
The suspect, Jackson, was located a short distance away and taken into custody without incident. Jackson was later also found to be from East Providence. Police determined he was unknown to the victim.

Rapoza said EPPD Detectives continue to investigate the reasons and events leading up to the assault.

Jackson was arraigned Thursday morning, July 6, on the following charges:

Felony Assault with a Dangerous Weapon

Assault with Intent to Commit Specified Felonies (Attempted Murder)

Disorderly Conduct

Jackson was ordered held pending a mental health evaluation and competency hearing later in July.