Man who stabbed 13-year-old in mid-January on Broadway pleaded not guilty, trial is April

Snohomish, WALocal News

Andrew Freeman Jr. , 21, faces serious legal consequences after pleading not guilty to first-degree assault charges for allegedly stabbing a 13-year-old boy in Everett. This violent incident took place just a day after Freeman's release from almost 12 months in prison for robbery and assault, raising significant concerns about community safety. Prosecutors allege that Freeman approached the victim, a seventh-grader at North Middle School, and chased him before inflicting five stab wounds with a small knife. The boy suffered critical injuries but is now recovering at home.

Freeman's past criminal history includes multiple convictions, highlighting a troubling pattern of behavior. His bail is set at an enormous $2 million, reflecting the severity of the charges. His trial is scheduled for April 11, and the community is watching closely as this case unfolds. The incident raises questions about the effectiveness of community supervision and the safety of local youth.

Related Articles

Appeals court upholds decision against SRFR Firefighter 8

The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court's decision against Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue, siding with the agency in a religious discrimination case involving eight firefighters who refused the COVID-19 vaccine. The firefighters, who sought back pay after being placed on unpaid leave, argued that the agency failed to provide reasonable accommodations for their religious beliefs. Attorneys representing the firefighters criticized the ruling, stating it jeopardizes religious freedom protections.

Fortney family revives teen leader program

Adam and Jill Fortney launched the Lead The Way Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at helping teens become positive community members. The foundation offers a free eight-week program for youth aged 13-17, focusing on leadership skills and personal development, starting on October 8 at Sno-Isle Tech Skills Center in Everett.

Sultan middle school student seeks national championship title in taekwondo

Fourteen-year-old Zayden Zimmerman, a mixed martial arts enthusiast, will compete as the No. 1 seed in the Moo Do taekwondo national championships on October 16 in Sacramento. After earning her first-degree black belt and winning 35 first-place medals, she aims to qualify for the 2026 AAU Junior Olympics in Des Moines. Zayden also excels in jiu-jitsu, having won all four of her competitions since starting the sport last year.