Two killed, one injured in stabbings on Portland light rail

Two people were stabbed to death and a third person was injured on a light rail train in Portland, Ore. Friday after they tried to confront a man who was shouting slurs at two Muslim women, police said

Portland Police spokesman Sgt. Pete Simpson told OregonLive the suspect was arrested as he tried to flee through a downtown neighborhood. 

There was no immediate information about the suspect's identity or that of his alleged victims. Simpson said the injured victim was expected to survive.

Emergency personnel were called to the Green Line Metropolitan Area Express (MAX) train at around 4:30 p.m.

Before the stabbing, the assailant was heard ranting on many topics using hate speech and biased language before turning his focus to the two young women. 

Witness Evelin Hernandez told OregonLive that the suspect was directing racist remarks at the women, one of whom was wearing a hijab. Hernandez said a group of men had attempted to confront the suspect when he stabbed them

Simpson confirmed that the suspect was using "hate speech and biased language," but did not elaborate. He said the victims were "attacked viciously."

One person died at the scene and the other died at the hospital. The third victim was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Police say it is not clear whether the man has mental health issues or if he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the attack. 

Friday marked the start of Ramadan for millions of Muslims, a time of intense prayer and fasting.

Source: Fox News