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U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III narrowly escaped a knife attack on Tuesday (June 17) in downtown Albany. The suspect, Saul Morales-Garcia, a previously deported migrant from El Salvador, faces charges of attempted second-degree murder, criminal possession of a weapon, and menacing.
According to CBS6 Albany, the incident occurred as Sarcone was leaving his office. Morales-Garcia allegedly lunged at Sarcone with a knife while shouting in a foreign language. Sarcone managed to evade the attack by fleeing into the lobby of the Hilton Hotel. Morales-Garcia then retreated but charged at Sarcone again before police arrived. The suspect was apprehended, and the knife was recovered.
Sheriff Craig Apple praised Sarcone's actions, stating, "U.S. Attorney John Sarcone’s selfless actions likely saved lives." Sarcone, appointed by Attorney General Pamela Bondi in March, expressed his duty to protect the public, saying, "I felt an obligation to the public as the chief Federal law enforcement officer in the district that includes the city of Albany."
Finger Lakes 1 reports that Morales-Garcia was remanded without bail and an order of protection was issued for Sarcone. The FBI and Homeland Security Investigations are reviewing the case for potential federal charges.
Sarcone emphasized the need for continued collaboration between federal and local authorities to ensure public safety. He stated, "The citizens of Albany, and visitors who come to Albany, should be able to feel safe walking down our streets."