Dispute between neighbors leaves 2 stabbed, 1 shot in West Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A violent dispute between neighbors in West Philadelphia left two people with stab wounds and another man shot.

It happened around 8:13 a.m. in the living room of a first-floor unit in the 800 block of N. Preston St.

Investigators say a 60-year-old woman was stabbed repeatedly by a 68-year-old man who lives nearby.

Authorities say they believe a third person, a 61-year-old man, intervened by pulling out a gun and opening fire on the attacker, but not before getting stabbed in the face and hand himself.

The woman, and her attacker, are hospitalized in critical condition. The man who shot the attacker is stable.

People who live along the block say they are heartbroken to find out what happened to their 60-year-old neighbor, affectionately referred to as Miss Marcella.

"I am absolutely distraught that Miss Marcella was hurt. I feel so incredibly sad and hurt," said Rachel Azzaan.

Neighbors here say this kind of violence is simply unacceptable.

"It's become a common thing now for everyone to choose the most violent option instead of just talking things out," said Dajanay Tribble.

"Violence is the last resort of any situation. I'm sorry it had to happen. I'm hoping that they will be able to recover and work out whatever happened," said Jeff Kennedy.

The motive for the stabbing remains under investigation.