UPDATE FROM Flagstaff Police:
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz.- On January 17, 2026, at 5:21 A.M., the Flagstaff Police Department responded to the 2800 block of South Highland Mesa Rd for the report of a disturbance. During the investigation, officers located an adult male victim who had been stabbed. The victim was taken to the Flagstaff Medical Center for emergency treatment, where he is in stable condition.
Flagstaff Police are actively searching for the suspect in this case, who has been identified as 29-year-old Justin Lee Watson. Justin is a Native American male that was last seen wearing a black hoodie sweater, black Nike sweatpants, black beanie, and is about 5’09”, 200 lbs. with long black hair. Justin left the area with an all-black bike. Justin should be considered armed and dangerous. If seen, contact police immediately.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — At approximately 5:22 a.m. this morning, Flagstaff Police Department officers and EMS were dispatched to the Highlands Village Apartments along Highland Mesa Road for a reported domestic violence incident involving a male and female, with children reportedly inside the home.
According to initial information, a caller observing the situation from a distance reported a possible female on the ground and a male standing over her, screaming. The male was described as wearing all black clothing, with long hair and white gloves. Both adults were described as Native American.
When officers arrived a few minutes later, they instead located a male victim who had been stabbed multiple times and was lying on the ground. Additional officers were immediately requested as the suspect’s whereabouts were unknown. A perimeter was established, and the apartment was cleared while officers began an active search.
The victim was transported with critical injuries to the Flagstaff Medical Center Trauma Center.
Police have identified the suspect by first and last name and conducted checks at his last known address, but were unable to locate him. The suspect remains outstanding at this time.
The suspect is described as an adult Native American male, approximately 6 feet tall, wearing a black sweatshirt with white writing, black sweatpants, and believed to be riding a bicycle.
Police advise the public not to approach the suspect.
If you see someone matching this description or have information related to this incident, call 911 immediately.
This is an active and developing situation. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
