Suspect in custody after allegedly stabbing ex-wife at Beaverton apartments
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – A man was arrested on Sunday after stabbing his ex-wife at a Beaverton apartment complex, leaving her hospitalized in critical condition, according to Beaverton Police Department.
Just before 9:45 a.m. Sunday, Beaverton police responded to the reported stabbing at the Springbrook Apartments on Southwest 5th Street. On the scene, officers found a woman with multiple stab wounds lying in grass outside of an apartment.
The suspect -- who was identified as the victim's ex-husband, Alfonza Merritt -- fled the scene after he was confronted by a neighbor who was armed with a handgun, according to police.
The victim identified the attacker to police and told officers she had a restraining order against him, Beaverton police said.
Witnesses reported to police that Merritt fled the scene in a dark green 2002 Toyota Camry with Indiana license plates before police arrived to the scene.
Oregon State Police arrested Merritt three hours later at a rest stop off Highway 84 near Hermiston.
Merritt was lodged in Umatilla County Jail on several charges including first-degree assault, attempted murder and unlawful use of a weapon.
Authorities said the investigation is ongoing.