Kearny, New Jersey — A 25-year-old woman has been charged with aggravated assault after allegedly buying a knife and stabbing another shopper during a violent confrontation outside a Marshalls store in Kearny, authorities confirmed.
According to Kearny Police, the suspect, identified as Amber Thompson, became enraged on Saturday when she thought another customer was taking too long in the checkout line. Witnesses told investigators that Thompson threatened the victim and her family, warning them that she would harm them once they left the store.
Moments later, as the family walked to their vehicle, police say Thompson purchased a set of kitchen knives, removed one from its packaging, and chased down the victim in the parking lot. She allegedly stabbed the woman several times before fleeing back into the store.
The victim suffered multiple wounds but is expected to recover after being rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, according to police.
Responding officers located Thompson hiding in a Marshalls restroom, where they discovered a bloody knife placed on top of the baby-changing station. She was taken into custody without further incident.
Thompson now faces multiple criminal charges, including aggravated assault and weapons offenses. Prosecutors are expected to review the case for potential additional charges as the investigation continues.
In a statement, a Marshalls spokesperson said, “We are aware of the incident that occurred in the parking lot outside of our store last week. At Marshalls, the safety and security of our Associates and customers is important to us, and we’re grateful for the swift response of the Kearny Police Department.”
Local law enforcement officials confirmed the incident remains under active investigation and encouraged witnesses to come forward. Authorities have not yet disclosed Thompson’s court date or whether she has retained a criminal defense attorney.
