Police Expand Patrols
After Knife Attack in Park
By Sandy Vondrasek

In the wake of an extraordinary report of a middle-of-the-night assault in Randolph’s recreation park this week, Randolph police have dramatically stepped up surveillance of the School Street area and are asking the public "to exercise caution" when there.

Responding to a 2:34 a.m. 911 call on Tuesday, May 13, RPD Officer James Beraldi found an area male resident, with a knife wound and naked, near the town pool. The man, whom the police have been careful not to identify in any way, other than that he lives in "the area," said he was assaulted, stripped, and cut with a knife by two men he could not identify. The man, who used his cell phone to call police, estimated that the attack occurred between 1:15-1:45 a.m.

RPD Chief James Krakowiecki said yesterday that the alleged victim was briefly treated on scene by White River Valley Ambulance, transported to Gifford Medical Center, and then airlifted to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.

He underwent surgery for the knife wound, his sole injury, and was released Tuesday afternoon.

In an interview with police Tuesday night, the injured man said two men ran at him as he walked in the park, and knocked him down. The two men, each estimated to weigh 250-275 pounds, allegedly fled on foot after the attack, heading north, via the park footbridge. They reportedly took the man’s clothing.

Police will conduct further interviews to try to verify the victim’s statements.

The incident is highly unusual and no motive is presently known, though police are considering all possibilities, including gang activity, the chief said. Since the risk to the public is not clear, police are being cautious and stepping up patrols, including foot patrols, in the area. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is assisting RPD, Chief K said.

Also, he noted that Randolph’s recreation park area is closed, 10 p.m.-7 a.m.

Yesterday, the town posted warnings in the park area, urging residents to use caution, and to call RPD, 728-3737, with any reports of suspicious activity. If there is a vehicle, it is most helpful to get a plate number, the chief emphasized this week.