Medford man allegedly assaults victim during fight over wheelchair

Medford, Ore. – Medford Police responded to a repored assault in the 2300 block of North Pacific Highway around 7:30 Monday morning.

Police said they found a 49-year-old man in a wheelchair with a laceration to the back of his head. The victim told officers a man named Howard Gonzales hit him in the head with a rock after they got into an argument over his wheelchair.

Police said the victim told officers he pulled out a knife during the argument to protect himself after Gonzales threatened to assault him. That’s when Gonzales reportedly hit the victim in the head and fled the scene carrying the man’s prescription glasses.

Police said the victim was taken to the hospital and treated for his injuries.

MPD said around 5:30 Monday night, officers took Howard Gonzales into custody at his Medford home. He was charged with assault, robbery, and harassment.