A stabbing on Sunday at Family Dollar in Sanford “may have been the result of an ongoing fight between the parties,” Sanford police said on Wednesday.
Police made the statement after reviewing video footage, adding that “it remains unclear what the fight was about or if any specific incident led up to it.”
Robert Wilson, 59, of Sanford was stabbed about 10:02 p.m. at the Family Dollar at Midtown Mall, according to Sanford police Maj. Mark Dyer.
When officers arrived, they found Wilson on his knees with bystanders helping control the bleeding, Dyer said Monday morning.
Wilson was taken to Maine Medical Center in Portland, where he was treated for stab wounds to his back and left side. He was in stable condition as of Monday, according to Dyer.
As of Monday, the suspect remained at large. Dyer said he has long hair and was wearing blue jeans, a backward-facing hat and multicolored hooded sweatshirt, noting it wasn’t tie-dyed or camouflage.
He was last seen heading north from Midtown Mall.
Police initially said the suspect may have stolen a backpack, but on Wednesday said there is “no evidence to suggest that the backpack involved was stolen.”
Police said they are seeking witnesses and a man who “may have an eye injury and could provide crucial information to help us better understand what transpired.”
Anyone with information about the stabbing can contact the Sanford Police Department at 207-324-3644.