Machete attack defendant's criminal history dates back to 2011
A machete attack caught on video quickly circulated on multiple village chats, leaving some fearful over what was really happening prior to police making an arrest.
“The guy was standing and he was upset. That's it. We called the police,” said Mr. Lee, the New Palm Market owner. “I’ve never seen him before. He was standing in the corner all morning and didn't bother anybody.”
Mr. Lee was standing inside his store Saturday afternoon when the unexpected occurred.
A man armed with a machete was caught on camera going after one of his customers.
“He didn't come in here. If he came in, I could've shot him. No question about it,” said Lee.
The attack happened within a matter of seconds and surveillance cameras captured it all where a man attacked a customer with a machete.
That man is identified as Michay Katsuta.
He is charged with aggravated assault, public drunkenness, and loitering.
Guam Police Chief Stephen Ignacio said, “Police did respond right away and we were able to make an apprehension and arrest in this case. We do want to advise our community that if you are approached by an individual, especially armed with a machete, take cover, [get to] safety, and more importantly, call 911 so you can report the incident right away and we can respond accordingly.”
Fortunately, the victim got away unharmed.
Now, Katsuta is no stranger to local law enforcement. His prison record goes back to 2011.
Over the years, he was charged in separate cases for terrorizing, criminal sexual conduct, child abuse, drug possession, and family violence.
He was just released from the Department of Corrections prison back on July 29.
More than 48-hours after the violent incident, Mr. Lee said he is concerned about the negative attention the crime has brought to his business.
“This area is quite a safe area. It's an isolated area but it's family oriented. There's not many outsiders,” said Lee.
Meantime, police have debunked the rumors circulating with the surveillance video.
Investigators are asking the community to call GPD if you know anything else about the case.