Man stabbed in back multiple times during Sanford bicycle theft

SANFORD, Maine - Police say a man was stabbed in the back multiple times early today after a pair of assailants attacked him and stole his bicycle.

Police got involved around today around 4:30 a.m. as they responded to a report of a stabbing and gunshots near the intersection of Emery Street and Heritage Crossing.

When officers arrived they found William Southworth, 38, with multiple stab wounds to his back.

Witnesses said two males had approached Southworth and stole his bicycle prompting a confrontation during which 3-4 gunshots were fired by one of the male assailants and Southworth was stabbed by the other.

Southworth was transported by Sanford Fire/Rescue to Maine Medical Center where he is listed in stable condition.

Sanford Police are actively investigating the incident and believe there is no direct threat to the public at this time.