Tuesday marks one year since former Fall River Mayor Will Flanagan was nearly killed in a brutal, unprovoked stabbing outside the cannabis dispensary he co-owns on Hartwell Street, and he marked the occasion by announcing a mayoral run.
The attack occurred at approximately 5:00 p.m. on October 20th, 2025, while Flanagan was walking in the neighborhood. He was stabbed multiple times in the face and neck. He suffered life-threatening injuries, spent six days on life support at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, and required extensive recovery that included physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
Corree K. Gonzales, then 31, was arrested the following morning and later indicted on charges including Armed Assault to Murder, Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon Causing Serious Bodily Injury, and multiple counts of Assault and Battery on a Police Officer related to his arrest. He has remained in custody without bail. Court proceedings have included mental health evaluations, a request for a change of venue that was not granted, and delays. A status review hearing is scheduled for November 2nd.
In the months after the attack, Flanagan publicly described the experience, credited first responders and medical staff with saving his life, and said his faith helped him forgive the suspect while still calling for greater public safety protections. He has advocated for legislation known as Flanagan’s Law, filed by State Rep. Alan Silvia, which would create a state database to better track and share information about individuals with documented histories of violence and serious mental health issues. He has said the system failed to prevent the attack despite the suspect’s prior record.
Flanagan has continued his recovery and recently announced plans to run again for mayor of Fall River.
The case against Gonzales remains pending in court.
