By By MARY-ALLISON LANCASTER – Managing editor
A man was stabbed five times over the weekend at a local bar, Brewton Police Department authorities said.
On Saturday, Oct. 22, around 2:30 a.m., officers reported to D.W. McMillan Hospital about a man who had been stabbed.
Lavarius Bell, 25, was taken to the hospital and treated for five stab wounds and a punctured lung. Police Chief Monte McGougin said Tuesday afternoon that Bell is still in the hospital where he is listed in stable condition.
According to McGougin, Officer Jason Yoder and Sgt. Eric Suarez went to the hospital and met Bell and his family. At the time, Bell said he did not want to press charges against the suspect, Mario K. Lovelace, 26, of 804 Dacus Street.
However, Lt. Randy Nicholson said that Bell has since changed his mind and wants to press charges against Lovelace.
According to statements taken by the officers, Lovelace and Bell had gotten into an argument at Duckie's Bar &Grill, located at 200 Rogers St. in Brewton. At that time, Lovelace proceeded to stab Bell.
The incident is still under investigation, and McGougin said that due to the nature of the crime, the case will be presented to the Grand Jury, which will meet Jan. 23.