BRANSON, Mo. — A Springfield man was arrested after attacking someone with a knife and pepper spraying another in Branson.
According to a press release from the Branson Police Department (BPD), Michael Gardner, 37, of Springfield was arrested on the following charges:
- Assault first-degree
- Armed criminal action
- Unlawful use of a weapon
- Assault third-degree
On May 12, BPD was dispatched to the 3300 block of 76 Country Blvd, a Track location, for reports of a man attacking people with a knife. Officers found one victim with non-life-threatening stab wounds and another victim who was sprayed in the face with pepper spray.
According to the PC Statement, the stabbing victim received shallow lacerations to his abdomen when Gardner poked him with a knife.
Then, when the victim tried to flee, he tripped, and Gardner proceeded to stab him again, this time in the arm. Emergency medical responders told the victim he may have long-term mobility problems with the arm that was stabbed.
Another victim was threatened with the knife and then sprayed with pepper spray.
Gardner refused to comply with officers as they attempted to arrest him. The press release said BPD used a Taser device before arresting him.
Gardner was found to have two knives and three cans of pepper spray in his possession when he was arrested.
Gardner was booked into the Taney County Jail.
