Mother Stabbed Dozens of Times on Mother’s Day, Son Killed by Police

A 66-year-old woman confined to a wheelchair was stabbed and slashed more than 40 times by her adult son before police officers fatally shot him, according to Southampton Town Police.

The attack unfolded on Mother’s Day. Police say Stephen Eastwood, 28, stabbed his mother dozens of times before officers arrived at the home. Three officers responded to the scene and found Eastwood armed with a knife, standing over his mother who was on the floor.

Police said Eastwood would not put the weapon down and initially moved toward the officers. “Within moments he refocused his attention on the victim and returned to her and was actively stabbing and slashing at her body,” a police spokesperson said.

More than one officer fired their weapons, fatally shooting the man.

The victim sustained more than 40 stab and slash wounds. She was transported by Suffolk County Police helicopter to Stony Brook University Hospital for treatment. Police said she underwent surgery and remains unconscious.

Two 911 calls were made from the woman. In the initial call, she reported that her son was intoxicated and acting erratically. A second 911 call came in while officers were responding, during which she said Eastwood was threatening her with a knife, according to police.

Neighbors expressed horror at the violence. “It’s beyond, you know, even the thought that somebody would do that to their own mother,” one neighbor said.

Another resident called the incident “very unfortunate” given the date.

Officials do not know at this time how many times the woman was stabbed and slashed prior to police arrival and while in the presence of officers. No arrests have been made, and authorities stated there is no known motive at this time. The woman is listed in stable condition.

The New York State Attorney General’s Office is investigating the police-involved fatal shooting.