As we previously reported, Pacers Chris Copeland was stabbed in the gut outside New York hotspot 1OAK this week.
According to a 1OAK spokesperson, Copeland and a female companion, Katrine Saltara, were in the club for about 10 minutes before leaving and walking down the street toward Fulton Houses, where their car was parked. Sources tell NY Daily News that Copeland and Saltara were arguing on the street about their relationship when Bleary (the assailant) butted in. “This guy is being nosy, sort of eavesdropping on the conversation,” a source said. “Copeland is like, ‘What the f— are you doing?’ An argument broke out and Bleary stabbed Copeland in the abdomen and elbow. Saltara sustained slashes to her arm, breast and buttock. A female friend of Bleary’s was stabbed in her stomach by accident when she jumped in the fight against Saltara. 1OAK representatives say Bleary never came in their club and that Copeland and Saltara were trying to make their way back to the club for help. Bleary was accosted by Copeland’s driver until cops came.
Copeland was set to take on the Knicks alongside the Pacers Wednesday night. According to ESPN’s Josina Anderson, the knife hit Copeland’s diaphragm and the Pacers Forward will remain in ICU for another 2-3 days. After surgery Copeland issued a statement saying, “I just want to thank everyone for their well wishes and prayers. I’m overwhelmed with the outpouring of support. I look forward to coming back stronger than ever. Thank you.”
