Stabbed man spurns police probe

Investigators are looking for three people who reportedly stabbed a man Sunday, smashed bottles over his head and then threw him off a bridge in northern Clark County.

The 24-year-old victim was treated at Southwest Washington Medical Center for a punctured lung and multiple abrasions, said Clark County Sheriff's Sgt. Scott Schanaker.

The victim's name and medical condition weren't known Monday.

Schanaker said Monday afternoon that the man, who is homeless, gave detectives a false name -- although investigators may know who he is -- and that he refused to cooperate with the investigation.

Schanaker said the victim and his assailants are from the Vancouver area and are believed to know each other.

Asked if the three meant to kill the victim, Schanaker said the intent and motive weren't known.

The stabbing was reported just before 2 a.m. Sunday. Early reports indicate the incident happened at Moulton Falls Park, about three miles south of Yacolt.

Schanaker said the men stabbed the victim, smashed bottles, stomped on him and then threw him off a bridge in the park.

Schanaker couldn't give details on the circumstances leading to the assault.

Schanaker said after the attack, the victim was found walking along Lucia Falls Road. A passing driver picked him up and took him to a friend's house in the Orchards area. The friend then called 911.

Laura McVicker: 360-735-4516 or laura.mcvicker@columbian.com.
John Branton: 360-735-4513 or john.branton@columbian.com.