NORWALK — Two city residents have been arrested after a physical altercation turned into a stabbing Monday night outside the SoNo Collection, police said.

The victim of the stabbing, identified as a 20-year-old man, remained in the hospital in stable condition Tuesday, Norwalk Police Lt. Ramon Tejada said. 

Officers responded to North Water Street around 7 p.m. Monday after getting a report of an assault, Tejada said. The victim was located at the scene, and was provided medical aid once first responders arrived, he said. 

Multiple people believed to be involved in a fight were detained, Tejada said. A preliminary investigation revealed a fight broke out with a person on a moped and four people walking on a sidewalk before the victim was stabbed, Tejada said. 

Lester Escobar-Ayala, 19, was identified as the suspect in the stabbing, Tejada said. Escobar-Ayala fled the scene, but was taken into custody after being located behind the mall, in the area of Crescent Street, he said. Escobar-Ayala was charged with first-degree assault and second-degree breach of peace, Tejada said. 

Tejada said Danny Reyes, 18, was identified as a person involved in the fight and in possession of a handgun. Tejada said Reyes was charged with carrying a pistol without a permit and second-degree breach of peace. 

Escobar-Ayala was given a $200,000 bond while Reyes' bond was set at $150,000.

July 28, 2026|Updated July 28, 2026 1:08 p.m.