Springfield Man Arrested After Brutal Attack on Wheelchair-Bound Victim in Downtown Street

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois — A 46-year-old Springfield man has been arrested and charged after police say he brutally attacked a wheelchair-bound victim, stomping his head in the middle of a downtown street and later admitting he wanted to “watch him die.”

Attack in Downtown Springfield

Police responded around 3 a.m. to the area of South 6th Street and Jefferson Street, where witnesses said a man had assaulted another individual in a wheelchair. According to surveillance video and bystanders, Montez Edward Bolden allegedly knocked the victim from his wheelchair, stomped his head repeatedly into the pavement, and then kicked him until he was unconscious.

Emergency crews rushed the victim to a nearby hospital. Authorities have not yet released his name but confirmed his injuries were critical. Witnesses immediately pointed officers to Bolden, who remained at the scene during the investigation.

Suspect’s Chilling Statements

When officers took him into custody, police say Bolden made disturbing comments, admitting his intent. “I want to sit here and watch him die,” he allegedly told investigators. He also said he had “tried to kill him” and would have continued had officers not intervened. Authorities say he even boasted about harming others if released.

Charges and Court Proceedings

Bolden has been charged with attempted first-degree murder and four counts of aggravated battery. He is being held in Sangamon County Jail ahead of his preliminary hearing set for October 10. Detectives noted that the combination of surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and Bolden’s own alleged admissions provided overwhelming evidence in the case.

Community Shock and Safety Concerns

The assault, which took place in front of several bystanders, has shaken residents and disability advocates in Springfield. Community leaders are calling for increased patrols downtown and urging anyone with additional information or footage to come forward to assist investigators.

The Springfield case highlights how vulnerable residents can become targets of senseless violence, sparking new concerns about safety downtown. For more Illinois crime updates and community coverage, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.