Arrest made in stabbing incident

Mountain Home police arrested a local man Thursday morning in connection with a stabbing incident at a local bar.

Juan S. Tabares, 26, was taken into custody and faces felony charges related to the stabbing of five individuals at Charlie's Place early Sunday morning.

The arrest follows a nearly five-day investigation that included interviews with 18 individuals, said Mountain Home Police Chief Nick Schilz. On Tuesday, police started interviewing a person of interest who they believed was responsible for the attacks.

Officers responded to Charlie's Place around 1:45 a.m. Sunday following an initial report that someone had stabbed the five individuals. According to reports, Tabares allegedly fled on foot following the attacks.

Police were able to recover a folding pocketknife which they believe was used in the assaults. A motive behind the fight remains under investigation.

Four of the victims were flown by air ambulance to a Boise hospital. A fifth individual, identified as a bouncer at the bar, sustained minor injuries and was taken to Elmore Medical Center and later released. Of the remaining victims, one remains hospitalized in Boise with his condition steadily improving and could be released by Thursday evening.

Police investigators, working with special agents with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations at Mountain Home Air Force Base, arrested Tabares. He was identified as the spouse of an airman stationed at the nearby base.

"We are committed to the safety and security of our base and the surrounding communities and will continue to assist local law enforcement as appropriate," said Col. Ron Buckley, 366th Fighter Wing commander, in a prepared statement.

In addition to five counts of aggravated battery, Tabares faces felony counts of aggravated assault and one count of destroying evidence.

The case still remains under investigation, and Mountain Home police will release additional information as it becomes available.

Those with additional information on the case are asked to call Detective Melanie Broughton at the city police department by calling 587-2101. People may also submit tips online through the department's Silent Witness link at www.mhpd.net/silentwitness.htm.