Employee Attacked with Machete at Athens Day Center, Suspect Arrested

On Thursday, June 20th, 2024, at around 4:10 PM, Athens-Clarke County Police (ACCPD) responded to a violent incident at 240 North Ave involving an employee of the Homeless Day Service Center. Officers found the victim suffering from head and facial injuries, and he was swiftly transported by EMS for treatment of serious wounds.

By 4:22 PM, ACCPD apprehended the suspect and recovered the machete allegedly used in the assault. Cedric Smith, 33, of Athens, faces charges including Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Battery, and Possession of a Weapon in the Commission of a Crime.

Police expressed gratitude for the assistance of witnesses and Day Center patrons, whose prompt cooperation helped Officers arrest the suspect quickly and without further incident.

The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to contact Lt. David Norris at David.norris@accgov.com or (762)-400-7165.