CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – A 23-year-old Champaign man is in custody following a violent knife attack that left two firefighters, and an emergency medical technician (EMT) injured late Thursday night.
On September 4 at approximately 9:40 p.m., Champaign Police and emergency services were dispatched to the area near Neil Street and Buena Vista Drive after a 9-1-1 caller reported experiencing a mental health crisis. First responders from Champaign Fire Department and Arrow Ambulance arrived at the scene to provide assistance.
Just 12 minutes later, at 9:52 p.m., an urgent distress call came over the radio indicating that a stabbing was in progress. Champaign Police officers arrived within minutes and found two firefighters and one paramedic suffering from serious stab wounds. Medical personnel on scene had already restrained the suspect.
The suspect, identified as Trevor Lewis, 23, of Champaign, was bleeding from a laceration on his hand and was taken to the hospital for treatment before being arrested on multiple charges, including:
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Three counts of attempted murder
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Three counts of aggravated battery
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One count of resisting arrest
The two injured firefighters were hospitalized and remain in serious but stable condition. The EMT was treated and released.
Authorities believe Lewis attacked the responders during their efforts to provide care and transport him. Police have not disclosed what may have triggered the violence.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police are seeking assistance from the public. Residents or businesses in the area with exterior security footage are asked to contact Champaign Police at 217-351-4545.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 217-373-8477, visiting 373tips.com, or using the P3 Tips mobile app. Champaign Police emphasized that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.