BALDWIN, NY – A violent altercation in a Baldwin home resulted in a 53-year-old man losing part of his ear to his 35-year-old roommate, Marcus O’Brien, according to local law enforcement. The incident, which took place early Thursday morning, escalated from a verbal disagreement to a physical brawl, leaving the older man with substantial injuries.
Authorities report that O’Brien not only bit off a portion of his roommate’s ear but also stabbed him multiple times using a kitchen knife. The victim suffered from deep lacerations to his left shoulder and right arm, as well as significant bruising and swelling from being struck repeatedly with a closed fist.
The victim managed to fight back, causing O’Brien to drop the knife. However, O’Brien then attempted to strangle his roommate, placing both hands around his neck. Despite his injuries, the victim was able to escape to a neighboring home and alert the police.
Upon their arrival, Nassau County Police arrested O’Brien. However, he resisted arrest, refusing to comply with lawful commands and attempting to use physical force against the officers. One of the officers sustained injuries during the arrest and required medical treatment.
The motive behind the brutal attack remains unclear, according to a Nassau County Police Department spokesperson. The victim is currently being hospitalized and is reportedly in stable condition. O’Brien faces multiple charges, including assault, attempted assault, criminal possession of a weapon, harassment, criminal obstruction of breathing/circulation, menacing, criminal mischief, and obstructing governmental administration.