A Kalamazoo man, identified as William Sylvester Richardson, 39, of Schoolcraft, is under arrest following an overnight crime spree that left three individuals with knife wounds and another victim assaulted, authorities reported today. FOX 17 indicated that these events began around 10 p.m. yesterday with the stabbing of two women on East Michigan Avenue, both of which are now in stable condition. Shortly after, a 25-year-old woman was reportedly punched in the face by Richardson at the Kalamazoo Mall.
Law enforcement used tracking canines and drones in a manhunt that eventually led to Richardson being struck by a patrol vehicle during a chase. This collision facilitated his capture and subsequent hospitalization in stable condition. Richardson is facing three counts of assault with intent to murder, two counts of resisting or obstructing a police officer, and one count of aggravated assault. As WZZM 13 reported, he will be lodged at the Kalamazoo County Jail upon his release from the hospital.
Further details revealed a fourth victim, a 51-year-old man, arrived at a hospital with a stab wound to the shoulder, citing Richardson as the assailant. This occurred in Bronson Park, according to the authorities. The Michigan State Police is spearheading the investigation into the use of force during Richardson's arrest, as it involved a patrol car striking him to end the foot pursuit. The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety stated the officer involved has been placed on paid administrative leave, aligning with protocol, as documented by WOODTV.
The prosecutor’s office clarified that if convicted, Richardson could face a life sentence. "It wasn’t terribly long," KDPS Chief David Boysen described the foot chase in a statement obtained by WOODTV. The department is confident Richardson acted alone and is not seeking additional suspects. The community is encouraged to come forward with any related information by contacting Kalamazoo's Silent Observer tip line or through the provided digital platforms.
