READING, Pa. — Police say a violent stabbing inside a Dollar Tree over the weekend was a targeted domestic incident, not a random attack.
Investigators say 57-year-old Jose DeJesus walked into the Dollar Tree on Rockland Street Saturday morning and went straight to his ex-girlfriend.
According to court documents, he followed her toward the back of the store before stabbing her multiple times.
“He knew the victim… went right where she was and stabbed her multiple times,” said Reading Deputy Police Chief Aaron Demko.
Police say the woman suffered serious injuries, including stab wounds to her back, shoulder, and near her head and neck. Another employee who tried to intervene was also cut during the attack.
Investigators say DeJesus acted with intent.
“We believe that this individual had full intent on doing what he was going to do. And he entered there and did it right away,” Demko said.
Officers responded quickly, focusing first on saving the victim’s life before launching an investigation. Police say surveillance video captured the attack and helped identify the suspect.
“Our officers located the weapon that was used right away. And the following day we were able to locate him and take him into custody,” Demko said.
DeJesus is now facing multiple charges, including attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and reckless endangerment.
Police say it’s important for the public to understand this was not a random act of violence.
“We don’t want people to think someone is going into businesses and just stabbing people,” Demko said. “This was a targeted incident.”
The victim remains hospitalized with serious injuries. The investigation is ongoing.