A juvenile who was stabbed during an altercation in Seneca Falls is in stable condition after emergency surgery for life-threatening injuries, police said.
The Town of Seneca Falls Police Department said officers responded July 7 to a local residence after a report that a juvenile had been stabbed. The juvenile was taken by North Seneca Ambulance to Strong Memorial Hospital.
Police said investigators determined the altercation happened in the area of Canal Street and Center Street in the Town of Seneca Falls. No other injuries were reported.
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Police said they believe the stabbing was an isolated incident and that there is no immediate threat to the general public.
No additional information will be released at this time as the investigation continues, according to the department.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact the department's Criminal Investigation Division by emailing cdenny@senecafallspd.net or mrotz@senecafallspd.net, using Tip411, or calling the Seneca Falls Police Department at 315-568-4850.
Police Chief Timothy Snyder said the department has seen a concerning increase in juvenile-related incidents, particularly violent altercations involving weapons. He said the case marks the third juvenile stabbing investigated by the department in the past four months.
The department has also seen more juveniles gathering in public areas during late evening and overnight hours, resulting in public safety concerns, Snyder said.
"The recent incidents involving our youth are deeply concerning and require a community-wide response," Snyder said. "The safety and well-being of our young people remain our highest priority, and we do not want to see another child seriously injured, or worse, because of an altercation that could have been prevented."
Snyder said officers will continue to maintain a visible presence throughout the community and engage with juveniles during evening hours. He said officers may contact parents or guardians when appropriate if a juvenile is out late at night without a clear or legitimate reason.
"These interactions are not about punishment," Snyder said. "They are about prevention, safety, and making sure our young people get home safely."
Snyder encouraged parents to talk with their children about violence, the consequences of poor decisions and the importance of responsible choices.
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