Police: 2 stabbed outside Phoenix mental-health facility, suspect identified

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - Police are investigating a double stabbing in the area of 7th Ave. and Osborn Road where authorities say a man stabbed two people for apparently no reason outside of the Lifewell Behavioral Wellness center.

Authorities say the suspect, identified as 25-year-old Daniel Kaufman, had left an appointment with a counselor when he attacked a 49-year-old woman and 60-year-old man. Both victims were taken to an area hospital in critical condition. They are continuing to recover.

A worker at the center saw what was happening and ran outside to help.

"He actually stepped in while the man was assaulting these other people with a knife, disarmed him, and held him down until the police got here. I'm told from the officers first on the scene that they consider him a life saver," said Sgt. Jonathan Howard.

The suspect reportedly bit the Good Samaritan who stopped the attack. He was treated at the scene.

Investigators believe that the suspect did not know the victims, and no words were exchanged before the attack.

"Kaufman was booked for several counts of aggravated assault, assault, and probation violation," stated Sgt. Jonathan Howard.