Truck driver arrested for attempted murder at Love’s Travel Stop

A Texas man is in custody after allegedly stabbing another man and attacking a police officer Wednesday afternoon at Love’s Travel Stop in Newton.

Conrado Gonzales Jr., 30, of San Antonio, Texas, has been charged with attempted murder and attempted murder of a peace officer, both are class B felonies.

According to a press release, the Newton Police Department was called around 6:08 p.m. to Love’s for a reported stabbing. Police were told a male had entered a semi and stabbed another man several times before fleeing on foot. The attack was unprovoked and the two individuals were not connected, according to the report.

Upon arrival, officers began to search the area for the suspect. During the course of the search, officers saw a man who matched the description and attempted to detain him. Gonzales then turned and attacked the officer. Both fell to the ground, with Gonzales on top of the officer. During the struggle, he began reaching for the knife in his front pocket, police say. Another officer responded to the attack and used a taser to subdue the suspect.

Gonzales was then placed under arrest. An open folding knife was found in his pocket. He admitted to Newton police his intention was to kill the victim and the police officer.

The 50-year-old victim was treated at the scene by Newton Fire Paramedics for minor stab wounds to his arms, legs and torso. The officer was not seriously injured in the attack.

Gonzales was transported to the Jasper County Jail. He is being held on cash only bond of $150,000 in the defendant’s name only. His preliminary hearing is set for 9 a.m. Jan. 19.

Contact Pam Pratt at 641-792-3121 ext. 6530 or pampratt@newtondailynews.com