Violent Altercation at Sandy Beach: Hopkinton Man Faces Serious Charges
A 70-year-old man from Hopkinton, Massachusetts, is facing serious charges after an altercation at Sandy Beach on Lake Maspenock. Steven Dana has been charged with attempted murder, strangulation/suffocation, and assault and battery on a disabled person. The incident occurred when Dana got into a physical fight with a 21-year-old man over the man's use of the lake, which is restricted to Hopkinton residents only during certain times of the year. The altercation was captured on surveillance video, showing Dana slapping the younger man and holding him underwater.
Hopkinton police responded to a report of a fight at Sandy Beach and quickly identified the individuals involved. Dana was asked to return home while the investigation took place. It was determined that the altercation stemmed from a dispute over the man's use of Lake Maspenock. The 21-year-old, who had previously been injured in an accident, was left with severe injuries that required him to use crutches.
After reviewing the surveillance footage, police arrested Dana at his home without incident. He was held without bail pending arraignment in court. Both Dana and the other man involved in the altercation declined medical attention. The police emphasized the seriousness of the incident and urged residents to report such matters to authorities rather than resorting to violence.
The incident at Sandy Beach in Hopkinton serves as a reminder of the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and following town bylaws. The Hopkinton Police Department stressed the need to address issues through proper channels and avoid unnecessary violence. The altercation could have had tragic consequences, highlighting the significance of handling disputes in a safe and lawful manner.