© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Prosecutor: knife in serial stabbing suspect's car

By AP

FLINT, MI –

A Michigan prosecutor says a knife and hammer were found in a vehicle driven by a man suspected in a string of stabbings that left five people dead.

Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton said Thursday the knife and hammer were discovered Aug. 5 when Elias Abuelazam was pulled over in Arlington, Va., during a traffic stop.

He was wanted on a simple assault warrant in Leesburg, Va., but was released by a magistrate.

Leyton says he doesn't know if the hammer and knife were returned to Abuelazam.

Abuelazam was arrested Wednesday night before trying to board a flight to Israel from Atlanta. He's charged in Michigan with a single count of assault with intent to murder.

Leyton says a motive is not known.

Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.