Hopkinton, Massachusetts — A dispute over access to a Massachusetts boat ramp escalated into a violent confrontation that has resulted in an attempted murder charge after authorities say a 70-year-old man allegedly attacked a disabled 21-year-old and held him underwater.
Police say the incident occurred Wednesday evening and was partially captured on video recorded by one of the victim’s friends.
Dispute Began Over Boat Ramp Access
According to the Hopkinton Police Department, officers responded to reports of a fight shortly before 7 p.m. on Wednesday.
Investigators say the confrontation began when Steven Dana, 70, became upset that several young men were using a boat ramp reserved for residents of Hopkinton.
The group had reportedly been using the ramp while jet skiing when Dana approached them. Video recorded by witness Benjamin Osmanovic allegedly captured part of the confrontation.
According to police, Dana could be heard telling the group:
“It’s time to go.”
Authorities say tensions quickly escalated after the verbal exchange.
Victim Was Recovering From Serious Injuries
Police identified the victim as 21-year-old Matt Duffy, who was reportedly using crutches at the time due to injuries suffered in a motorcycle crash.
Investigators say Dana approached Duffy near the water and became physically aggressive.
According to police, video evidence shows Dana allegedly slapping Duffy before tackling him to the ground.
Authorities further allege Dana then “forcefully held” the victim underwater. Because of his existing injuries, Duffy reportedly had limited ability to defend himself during the attack.
Friends Intervene During Alleged Drowning Attempt
Duffy later described the terrifying experience in an interview.
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“I couldn’t use either of my arms or my leg as they were both broken, and I was just praying that he let go or my friends pull him off of me,” Duffy said.
According to investigators, friends who witnessed the incident quickly stepped in and managed to pull Dana away from the victim.
Their actions may have prevented the situation from becoming even more serious.
When officers arrived at the scene, they were shown the video recording that allegedly documented part of the altercation.
Serious Charges Filed Against Suspect
Following the investigation, police arrested Dana and charged him with several offenses.
Authorities say he faces charges including:
- Attempt to murder
- Two counts of strangulation or suffocation
- Assault and battery on a disabled person
Police have not publicly indicated whether Dana has entered a plea regarding the allegations.
The charges reflect the severity of the accusations and the injuries involved in the confrontation.
Suspect Held Without Bail
As of Thursday, Dana remained in custody at the Hopkinton Police Department. Authorities said he was being held without bail pending court proceedings.
He was scheduled to be arraigned on Friday, though details regarding future court appearances were not immediately available.
The case has drawn significant attention due to both the nature of the allegations and the fact that the incident was reportedly captured on video.
Investigators continue to review evidence as the criminal case moves forward through the court system.
What are your thoughts on this disturbing confrontation? Share your opinion respectfully in the comments below.
