By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – A string of attacks in downtown Bloomington Wednesday afternoon doesn’t have one downtown resident and worker feeling unsafe.

Bill Waller with Habitat for Humanity of McLean County helped assist after two people were stabbed and another beaten in the area. One of the victims was stabbed in front of Habitat’s office at the corner of Jefferson Street and Main Street.

“This downtown area and this town in general is safer than just about anywhere else that you can go,” said Waller. “The police department does a fantastic job. Public service all the way across the board does a fantastic job.

Bloomington police have arrested Jason Hopkins, 35, of Bloomington and are charging him with multiple counts of aggravated battery. Police believed this was an isolated incident and are not seeking other suspects.

Waller told WJBC’s Scott Laughlin he’s seen Hopkins downtown on multiple occasions.

“He did come up to me the other day and asked for money,” said Waller. “Since this has happened people have come up to me and said, ‘I know who you’re talking about. I’ve seen the guy and he’s asked me for money.’ Typically, he’s very pleasant.

“I can only assume that there’s other issues with him at this point in time that caused all this.”

Waller added the way Habitat’s staff, and others, reacted to the incident was “heroic.”

“You didn’t know at the time whether this was an epidemic event or if this was a single event,” said Waller. “Yet, they came right downstairs and assisted this guy and they were all very forthcoming in their efforts.”

None of the victims’ injuries were considered life threatening.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].