UTICA, NY — A violent altercation that occurred on the city’s east side has led to criminal charges after Utica Police responded to a stabbing investigation over the weekend. Authorities say a 35-year-old woman is now facing multiple felony charges following the incident, which left another woman injured but expected to recover.
Timeline of Events
On Sunday, July 20, 2025, at approximately [time not specified], officers from the Utica Police Department and personnel from the Utica Fire Department were dispatched to the 1100 block of Lenox Avenue after receiving reports of a possible stabbing.
Upon arrival, officers encountered Jasmine Taylor, a female victim who had sustained a head injury consistent with a sharp object wound. Taylor informed police that the stabbing had actually taken place a few blocks away — on the 1200 block of Gray Avenue — during a heated confrontation with another female individual.
According to her account, the two women became involved in a verbal argument that quickly escalated into violence. During the confrontation, the suspect allegedly produced a weapon and stabbed Taylor in the head. Despite her injuries, she managed to flee the location and sought help in the nearby Lenox Avenue area.
Emergency medical personnel transported her to Wynn Hospital, where medical staff determined that, fortunately, her injuries were non-life-threatening.
Investigation and Arrest
The case was promptly turned over to the Utica Police Criminal Investigations Division (CID). Detectives conducted follow-up interviews, canvassed the area for surveillance footage, and cross-referenced witness statements. Their swift and thorough investigative work led to the identification of a suspect in the case.
On Tuesday, July 23, 2025, just three days after the stabbing, officers located and arrested Athya Sullivan, a 35-year-old woman from Utica, believed to be responsible for the assault.
Following her arrest, Sullivan was officially charged with the following:
- Assault in the Second Degree, a Class D felony
- Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree, a Class D felony
She was processed at the Utica Police Department and subsequently held pending arraignment.
Legal Proceedings and Community Response
Assault in the second degree is a serious charge that carries significant legal consequences under New York State law, particularly when a weapon is involved. Prosecutors are expected to pursue the case vigorously, given the violent nature of the incident.
As the investigation continues and court proceedings begin, members of the Utica community are once again reminded of the importance of conflict de-escalation and the dangers of armed altercations. City leaders and public safety officials are using this case as a call to action to encourage residents to seek peaceful resolutions and to report incidents before they escalate.
Statement from Authorities
The Utica Police Department praised the cooperation between emergency services and CID detectives for the quick resolution of the case.
“This arrest demonstrates the effectiveness of community response and thorough police work,” said a department spokesperson. “We’re thankful Jasmine Taylor is recovering, and we’ll continue to pursue justice with the utmost seriousness.”
Authorities have not released further details regarding the nature of the relationship between the two women or what specifically led to the altercation. The case remains under review, and more information is expected as it moves through the judicial process.
Anyone with additional information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Utica Police Department or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
As the city reflects on this unsettling event, community members are encouraged to support one another and continue working toward a safer Utica for all.
If you have the actual name of the victim, I’d be happy to update it accordingly.
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