An American man has been arrested in Bangkok after allegedly stealing from a 7-Eleven before attacking a traffic police officer with a utility knife, leaving the officer injured and requiring hospital treatment.
The incident happened on Saturday morning, August 22, in the Sua Pa area. Investigators said 29-year-old Alexander Troy Lopez allegedly took items from a 7-Eleven, prompting a traffic officer patrolling nearby on a motorcycle to intervene.
Police said Lopez allegedly responded by slashing the officer across the neck with a utility knife before fleeing towards Sua Pa Plaza. Members of the public and other officers helped the injured policeman, who was later taken to Bangkok Metropolitan Administration General Hospital for treatment.
A search operation was subsequently launched after investigators received information that a man matching Lopez’s description was heading towards Suan Mali Roundabout. Officers searched the surrounding area and eventually found the suspect hiding near a temporary shelter.
Lopez was arrested less than 30 minutes after the alleged attack. Police also recovered a yellow utility knife believed to have been used in the incident.
According to investigators, Lopez appeared intoxicated, was initially incoherent and was not fully cooperative during questioning. An interpreter was brought in to assist officers in communicating with him in English and Spanish.
He was later taken to Police General Hospital for a medical examination and drug testing. A preliminary urine test reportedly detected methamphetamine, although police said any additional drug-related charge would depend on further medical testing, including blood analysis.
Lopez was initially charged with attempted murder of a police officer carrying out his duties and an offence linked to robbery. Authorities are also checking his background and immigration status while continuing to gather evidence.
The injured officer remains under medical care and is now in stable condition. Lopez remains in custody as the investigation and legal proceedings continue.
