Machete attack in homeless center in Athens seriously injures employee

An Athens man was arrested and charged after allegedly attacking a homeless shelter worker with a machete, according to a news release from Athens-Clarke County police.

Following the attack on Thursday, June 20, police arrested 33-year-old Cedric Smith. They charged him with aggravated assault and possession of a weapon during the commission of a crime.

Officials said they were called to the day center at 240 North Avenue around 4:10 p.m. after a report of an attack with a machete. When they arrived, they found a center employee with injuries to his head and face.

“At around 4:22 p.m., ACCPD officers located the suspect and the weapon,” said police spokesman Lt. Jody Thompson.

The victim was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

The investigation into the attack is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Lt. Norris at (762)-400-7165 at [email protected].