The victim in a Salt Lake City stabbing incident released a statement Tuesday.
Steven Killpack, 63, a former county prosecutor and a recently-retired public federal defender,was stabbed on July 5.
Police have charged Matthew Christopher Wall with aggravated burglary and two counts of possession of a dangerous weapon.
The following is the complete statement from Steven Killpack.
“In response to the many inquiries over the past few days, I am releasing this brief statement regarding the incident in my home on July 5, 2012. Upon awaking that morning, I was surprised to find a man in my home who was previously unknown to me. He identified himself as Matthew Wall, and he claimed to have entered my home with permission from an unidentified person. After I confirmed his claim of invited entry was untrue, he attacked me with a knife, stabbing me repeatedly and inflicting serious internal injuries. Fortunately, I was able to escape and obtain assistance from neighbors.
My injuries required operative surgical treatment at the University Hospital. Although the long term prognosis for recovery is optimistic, I am still very weak, and my convalescence is expected to continue for several months.
Following the ordeal, the outpouring of assistance and encouragement has been overwhelming and deeply appreciated. I especially want to thank my family, friends and neighbors; the emergency response team; the Trauma Unit staff at the hospital; the Salt Lake City Police Department, and the District Attorney’s Office for their assistance. In addition, I want to thank the defense attorneys, prosecutors and court personnel who have worked together to address the immediate ongoing demands of my private law practice. I feel fortunate to be alive and to have been the recipient of so many kindnesses and so much good will.
Further media inquiries should be directed to the Salt Lake Police Department.”
