Deaf Man Stabbed For Sign Language

Ignorance can be bliss, and sometimes it can be fatal. When 22-year-old Robert Jarell Neal thought a deaf man was flashing gang signs, he tried to stab him to death.

It was just sign language.

Terrance Ervin Daniels was signing with another deaf man, and Neal obviously misunderstood the situation. Police say Neal used a kitchen knife to stab Daniels several times, as the victim tried to defend himself. According to FOX News, Daniels was sent to the hospital and is in stable condition. Neal was charged with felony assault as well as assault with a deadly weapon.

Candace Gerrington, a neighbor who witnessed the attack told reporters:

“My voice is gone from me screaming, ‘stop, stop leave that man alone.”

Daniels was found lying in the grass at an intersection bleeding from multiple stab wounds. His face and hands had been cut. A neighbor saw the Daniels and called for help.

Neal, previously arrested for assault, is being held on $500,000 secured bond. New York Daily News reports he’s being detained in the Alamance County jail. He may not have an attorney.

Police are continuing to investigate and ask any witnesses to come forward with additional information.