One indicted on attempted murder

Joel Andres Lopez

During the September grand jury, one Russellville man was indicted on two counts of attempted murder – the second county of which was upgraded from what was originally an assault first degree charge.

Joel Andres Lopez, 36, 204 St. Clair St., Russellville, was indicted on attempted murder following the near-fatal stabbing of his wife in July. Sgt. Jake Tompkins said when the Russellville Police Department responded to a 9-1-1 call about assault, there were obvious signs of an altercation, and Lopez’s wife and children had escaped the scene. Lopez himself fled on foot.

Lopez wife and children were located by officers near Big Star. She was covered in blood, Tompkins said, and was rushed to the ER.

“She had over 20 stab wounds,” Tompkins said.

A son, age 14, also showed signs of assault, and Tompkins said the child told police his father had uttered “Father forgive me” as he attempted to slit the boy’s throat.

Lopez turned himself in the next morning, Tompkins said, and investigation into the assault led to his arrest. The original charges of attempted murder and assault first degree were upgraded to two counts of attempted murder.

Lopez’ case is set for arraignment Oct. 25, according to the Franklin County District Attorney’s office. Lopez remains in the Franklin County Jail on a $500,000 bond.

For additional recent grand jury indictments, see page A12.