A violent altercation broke out late Tuesday night in the parking lot of a McDonald’s in Nashua, NH, leaving one man seriously injured from multiple stab wounds. A bystander with a firearm intervened, prompting the suspect to flee.

LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE

NASHUA, NH (3-minute read) — A late-night dispute outside a McDonald’s in Nashua, New Hampshire turned violent Tuesday night, leaving one man seriously injured after being stabbed multiple times. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. in the restaurant’s parking lot on East Hollis Street, where police say two groups of people got into a heated argument that quickly escalated into violence.

According to witnesses, about four individuals were involved in the altercation. As tensions flared, one man pulled a knife and attacked a 32-year-old male, stabbing him repeatedly in the face and abdomen. Eyewitness Felix Marengo, who was sitting in his vehicle at the time, stepped in when he saw the attack unfold. Marengo, a legal firearm carrier, drew his handgun in an effort to stop the assault.

“As soon as they saw I pulled my gun out, the guy, the stabber, ran behind Wendy’s,” Marengo recalled.

The victim was transported to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center with serious injuries but is expected to survive. The suspect, 22-year-old Jose Vasquez, turned himself in at the Nashua Police Department early Wednesday morning and admitted his involvement. He has been charged with first-degree assault and appeared in court later that day. Prosecutors claim Vasquez stabbed the victim multiple times, while his defense argues that the victim initiated the fight.

Authorities believe the incident was isolated and involved individuals who knew each other. However, police say the investigation is ongoing and more charges may follow.

Concealed Carry Intervention Highlights Importance of Preparedness

This incident underscores the potential role of responsible concealed carry in de-escalating life-threatening situations. While Marengo did not fire his firearm, the simple act of presenting it deterred further violence and likely prevented additional injuries.

Safety Tip: If you carry a firearm for self-defense, always ensure you’re legally permitted to do so, and be trained to act decisively but responsibly under pressure. Proper judgment and restraint are just as important as marksmanship.