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.
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.
CATS officials say they are cooperating with CMPD in the investigation.
Flashpoint is a weekly in-depth look at politics in Charlotte, North Carolina, South Carolina, and beyond with host Ben Thompson. Listen to the podcast weekly.
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Stitcher || Google Podcasts
Locked On is the leading podcast network for local sports and is owned by WCNC Charlotte's parent company TEGNA.
Listen to Locked On here.
Wake Up Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at Wake Up Charlotte.
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Stitcher || TuneIn || Google Podcasts
All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.