Suspect Arrested After Fatal Stabbing Near Wellesley Playground; Victim Dies at Hospital

A 26-year-old Massachusetts man is in custody after a fatal stabbing near a playground in Wellesley on Thursday evening, authorities said.

According to the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office, Wellesley police officers responded to Phillips Park shortly after 6:00 p.m. following a 911 call reporting that someone needed assistance.

When officers arrived, they found a 58-year-old man suffering from a stab wound. The victim was rushed to Newton-Wellesley Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Witnesses described a chaotic and disturbing scene near the park’s playground.

“There was a man in a pink shirt, and he stabbed someone,” witness Christine Meyer told NewsCenter 5, adding that she saw the suspect flee the area immediately after the attack.

Authorities later arrested James Floyd Bennett III, 26, of Wellesley, in connection with the stabbing. He is scheduled to be arraigned Friday in Dedham District Court.

Investigators have not yet determined whether the suspect and the victim knew each other. The victim’s identity has not been released pending notification of family members.

The investigation is being led by the Massachusetts State Police and the Wellesley Police Department.

Officials have stated that the suspect is in custody and there is no ongoing threat to the public. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deadly stabbing remains active.