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Suspect charged in streetcar stabbing

The incident happened near the Johnson and Wales CATS station on Trade Street.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A man is facing charges in connection with a stabbing on a streetcar in Uptown Charlotte Thursday afternoon.

A passenger on the CATS Gold Line was injured during an attack near the Johnson and Wales station, CATS said. Charlotte-Mecklenburg police responded to the incident, which happened around 4 p.m. CMPD said a fight led to the stabbing. 

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The suspect, identified as 49-year-old Robert Bruce Watson, ran from the scene but was arrested shortly after, CMPD said. Watson was charged with assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury. 

The victim, a 56-year-old man, said he did not know the suspect and the attack was random. 

"This is a tragic incident for all parties involved," a CATS spokesperson said in a statement. "The safety and well-being of all customers is CATS’ top priority and concern."

WCNC Charlotte spoke with riders of the Gold Line who said this incident left them taken aback. Some suggested CATS should increase its safety measures.

"You never know what people are holding," Carmen Haritson said. "They could have a gun a knife a machete or anything.” 

Others told WCNC Charlotte the organization already has measures in place. They highlighted there is security on the street car and staff checks the car from time to time. 

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CATS officials say they are cooperating with CMPD in the investigation.

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