A man was arrested and charged in connection to the stabbing of former Fall River, Massachusetts Mayor Will Flanagan. Police said that 31-year-old Corree Gonzales is facing additional charges after he allegedly assaulted the arresting officers.

Gonzales was arraigned briefly late Tuesday afternoon and was ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation on Wednesday.

Fall River police said they received multiple calls about the stabbing near the 100 block of Hartwell Street at about 5:00 p.m. on Monday and found Flanagan with serious injuries.

"Fall River Police and Fall River EMS immediately responded and discovered that the victim was former City of Fall River Mayor Will Flanagan," police said. 

Former Fall River mayor stabbed

Flanagan sustained "significant" injuries and was taken to an area hospital. As of Monday night, he was listed in serious but stable condition.  

Around 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, police arrested Gonzales. Fall River police said that while they were taking him into custody, Gonzales allegedly assaulted several officers.

As a result, he was charged with four counts of assault and battery on a police officer.

"We would like to thank all of the detectives and officers who worked tirelessly into the early hours of the morning to collect evidence, review camera footage, and obtain witness statements, all of which led to the swift apprehension of the suspect. Teamwork and prompt communication were vital in ensuring this rapid outcome," police said in a statement. "We also extend our sincere thanks to the community for their cooperation, providing valuable footage and information that supported our investigation."

Who is Will Flanagan?

Will Flanagan was the mayor of Fall River from 2010 until 2014 when he lost a recall election. Flanagan now owns a marijuana dispensary on Hartwell Street. 

"My thoughts and prayers are with Former Mayor Will Flanagan, his family, and friends," Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan said. "The full support of the Mayor's Office is with the Fall River Police Department as they work tirelessly to bring justice in this case. We stand firmly behind Chief Kelly Furtado, and the dedicated men and women of the FRPD as they continue this active investigation." 

Fall River is a city in southeastern Massachusetts, about 50 miles from Boston.