Deputies in unincorporated Clay County say a Tuesday afternoon stabbing left an elderly woman fighting for her life and a Jacksonville man in handcuffs. The woman, who had been stabbed multiple times, was rushed to HCA Florida Orange Park and listed in critical but non-life-threatening condition. Deputies detained 35-year-old Donald Claude Jackson at the scene.
Scene and arrest
Clay County deputies were called to the home around 2:50 p.m. on a report of a stabbing. When they arrived, they found the victim bleeding from her neck and torso. In the doorway of the residence, they spotted Jackson with blood on his hands, socks and shoes and detained him for safety, according to News4JAX.
Injuries, evidence and medical care
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office reports the victim sustained six stab wounds to her torso and a slash across her neck. Clay County Fire and Rescue transported her to HCA Florida Orange Park for treatment. Investigators recovered a kitchen knife at the scene, officials said.
Authorities say Jackson spoke with investigators, consented to a search of the residence and was later taken to the hospital for a medical assessment. After he was medically cleared, he was booked into the Clay County Jail, per the Clay County Sheriff's Office.
Investigation and booking
Investigators have not released a motive, and jail records show Jackson was processed into the Clay County Jail after he was medically cleared. Authorities say the probe remains active and more information will be released as it becomes available, according to News4JAX.
How to help
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Clay County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line at (904) 264-6512 or submit a tip through the sheriff's website. The sheriff's office maintains resources and a tip form on its site for residents who wish to assist the investigation, per the Clay County Sheriff's Office.
