HOPKINTON, MA – A violent confrontation over a jet ski at Lake Maspenock’s Sandy Beach escalated into an attempted murder charge after a 70-year-old local resident allegedly tried to drown an injured 21-year-old.
Confrontation Over Jet Ski Noise
The incident occurred on Wednesday at the community lake boat ramp in Hopkinton. According to a police report, Steven Dana became agitated by the noise coming from a jet ski being operated by 21-year-old Matthew Duffy and his friends.
Dana allegedly confronted the group and attempted to force them to leave the public boat ramp. Duffy, who currently relies on crutches due to a severe injury from a previous accident, refused to leave, stating he lived nearby and had the right to use the lake.
Escalation and Water Brawl
The entire interaction was captured on a GoPro camera by Duffy’s friends. The video shows the verbal argument turning physical after Dana walked down to the lakeside. Following a brief exchange of words, Dana allegedly slapped Duffy across the face.
The two men grappled and fell into the lake. Witnesses and video evidence allegedly show Dana holding Duffy underwater. Three bystanders rushed into the water to separate the pair.
Duffy later stated he was terrified during the assault because his physical condition left him unable to fight back. Both men refused medical attention at the scene.
Court Charges and Release
Following his arrest, Dana was arraigned in Framingham District Court on Thursday. He faces multiple severe charges, including:
- Attempted murder
- Strangulation
- Assault and battery on a disabled person
Dana was initially held without bail, but a judge released him on Friday after he posted a $7,500 cash bond. Duffy expressed frustration regarding the release, calling the decision “insane” given the severity of the alleged attack.
