A BIT ON EDGE: Hoboken Police Arrest Man With 14-Inch Knife Near Hospital

The Hoboken Police Department encountered a man wielding a 14-inch knife following an argument with another male near Hoboken University Medical Center on Saturday.

At about 1:00 p.m. on April 18, Officer Wilfredo Gomez, Officer Nathaniel Arocho, and Officer Samuel Flores responded to the area of 4th and Willow Avenue after a caller stated he overheard two males arguing and one of the men had a large knife in his hand.

The caller then pointed out John Vogel, 60, of Hoboken, who was holding a 14-inch knife and was in possession of another 8-inch knife and 50 grams of Pepper Spray Gel.

ABOVE: DRAMATIZATION (Paramount Pictures)

While being placed under arrest, Vogel stated he was COVID-19 positive—claiming that he smelled the virus in his stool—which is why he went to the hospital. All officers on scene were wearing their Personal Protection Equipment at the time of contact with Vogel, who was transported to headquarters and exhibited no visible symptoms of any infection. At headquarters, Vogel was seen by an ambulance and he refused any further medical treatment.

The second male involved in the argument was not found. Vogel was charged with Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose, Unlawful Possession of Weapon and Prohibited Weapons and Device. Vogel’s charges were placed on a Warrant. Vogel was found to have a Hudson County Superior Court warrant for his arrest. Vogel was transported to the Hudson County Correctional Facility after being processed.

***