False rumors have exploded on social media regarding the Sunday, June 1, mass-stabbing incident at the Union Gospel Men’s Mission that wounded 12, including two staff members. Executive Director Craig Smith posted a statement on the mission’s website to clarify events as they occurred at the mission’s front entrance.

According to the Salem Police incident report, emergency responders were called to the Union Gospel Mission at 777 Commercial St. NE after reports that a man was stabbing at people with an eight-inch knife. The incident started in the mission’s lobby at about 7 p.m. as guests signed in for a night’s stay at the homeless shelter. The suspect continued the spree onto the street, where police stopped him and secured the knife.

Twelve people were injured, including five who were hospitalized at Salem Health with serious injuries. One, a staff member, remained in the hospital as of Wednesday night. A second hospitalized staff member was later released.

The suspect, Tony Latrell Williams, 42, of Bend, OR, was arrested and initially charged with assault. Court records indicate that Williams has a history of mental illness and previous knife attacks.

Director of Community Outreach Mark Hunter said that “God has made his presence known” in the community’s outpouring of support.

In his video statement posted the following morning, Smith said the suspect’s actions appeared to be random and not attributable to any staff actions. Watch his complete statement for more information.

To offer your support, visit ugmsalem.org.