SPOKANE, Wash. — A 17-year-old faces serious charges in connection with a brutal attack on a homeless man, raising questions about youth violence and public safety in the area. Kage Mathews was taken into custody late Thursday night and is one of three teenagers accused of the unprovoked assault.
Authorities report that Mathews, along with two accomplices, assaulted a homeless man who was resting in a sleeping bag. The attack involved significant physical violence, leaving the victim with severe skull fractures. Medical intervention was required to address the brain swelling, including the removal of a piece of his skull.
Witness accounts suggest that the trio did not flee the scene immediately but instead escalated the situation by throwing a Lime scooter, weighing over 40 pounds, at another homeless individual nearby. This incident has alarmed residents and advocates who are concerned about the safety of vulnerable communities.
The prosecution has called for a substantial bail of $100,000, reflecting the violent nature of the alleged crimes. However, during a bail hearing, Superior County Court Commissioner Jerry Scharosch decided to set bail at $20,000. Scharosch pointed to Mathews’ ties to the Spokane community, highlighting that he has lived there for the past five years, resides in a group home, and recently completed a diversion program in Cheney.
Despite his local connections, Mathews has an extensive history of legal troubles. The court noted that he faces additional pending charges from March, including allegations of malicious mischief and firearm-related offenses. His recent run-ins with the law raise concerns about his ability to comply with legal expectations and community safety.
Mathews is scheduled for arraignment on May 13 at 9 a.m., where he will face charges of first-degree assault with great bodily injury and second-degree assault with a deadly weapon. The community awaits further developments as the legal proceedings unfold, reflecting broader issues of youth behavior and the treatment of marginalized individuals. As discussions about public safety continue, this case underscores the complexities involved in addressing such acts of violence.