Mattawa, Grant County, WA – A late-night domestic dispute outside Mattawa escalated into a violent knife assault on New Year’s Eve, leaving one man hospitalized and another jailed, according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies were called at approximately 11:45 p.m. Tuesday night to the 15000 block of T 5-SW in an unincorporated area outside Mattawa. Investigators say a disagreement between two adult male roommates turned physical after one allegedly grabbed a knife.
Deputies learned that 34-year-old Mario Cortez Perez allegedly swung a knife during the initial argument, cutting the other man’s nostril. Witnesses were able to separate the two men, but officials say the conflict continued later the same night.
During the second altercation, Cortez Perez allegedly used a knife again, causing a serious wound to the roommate’s arm, along with additional knife injuries to the victim’s chest and hands. Investigators say the victim also suffered a head wound after being struck with a beer bottle.
The injured man was airlifted by ambulance to Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland for treatment. Deputies say once the victim is treated and released, the case will be forwarded to the Grant County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for possible charges of first-degree assault – domestic violence. The victim’s name has not been released because he has not been charged or booked.
Cortez Perez was arrested at the scene and booked into the Grant County Jail on suspicion of first-degree assault – domestic violence and threats to kill.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities note that the information released is preliminary and subject to change.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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