Fall River, Massachusetts — A few weeks ago, the community was shaken by the brutal assault of former Mayor Will Flanagan, who was stabbed multiple times in an attack that occurred near his residence. The incident has stirred concerns over public safety and highlighted the lasting impact of violence on individuals and families.
In a recent appearance on The MGM Show on Fun 107, Flanagan discussed the traumatic experience he endured. He reflected on how the attack forced him to confront the fragility of life. “This really puts everything into perspective,” he noted, recognizing how different his situation could have been.
On October 20, just before dusk, Flanagan was attacked from behind, never expecting such violence. He suffered two stab wounds to the face and another on each side of his neck. The injuries were perilously close to vital arteries and his vocal cords, leading to a punctured trachea. Flanagan spent a week on life support and suffered a heart attack during his recovery.
Despite the severity of his injuries, Flanagan has shown remarkable resilience. “My eye is healing, and my neck wounds are improving. I feel my strength returning,” he shared, noting the challenges of relearning basic actions like walking and eating after being bedridden. He hopes to achieve a full recovery by Christmas.
Flanagan speculated that the attack was random, stating that the assailant had a troubling history of violence and mental health issues, well known to local law enforcement. “What happened to me could have happened to anyone,” he remarked, urging society to address broader issues of safety that affect individuals nationwide.
He expressed deep gratitude for the bystanders who intervened during the attack. A group of seniors, present at a nearby assisted living facility, rushed to his aid, applying pressure to his wounds and stopping the bleeding until emergency responders arrived.
Reflecting on his recovery, Flanagan credited St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford for saving his life, asserting that no other facility might have been as equipped for this type of critical injury. “I owe a lot to the team there for their swift and skilled care,” he said.
Emotionally, the journey has been tougher than he anticipated. Flanagan revealed that the most devastating aspect wasn’t the physical pain or medical procedures, but the time lost with his children during his hospitalization. “Every day is a gift,” he emphasized, conveying a message that resonated deeply with his audience.
Looking ahead, Flanagan intends to use his experience as a platform to raise awareness about mental health, public safety, and related policies. “I was given a second chance for a reason,” he explained, expressing hope for improvements that could make streets safer for all.
Before concluding his segment, Flanagan extended his appreciation to the show’s hosts for allowing him to share his story. “Thank you for having me. I just want to come back stronger than before,” he said, underscoring his determination to turn a traumatic experience into a catalyst for positive change.