Provo, Utah - A homeless man has been charged with multiple counts of assault following a shocking incident outside a motel in Provo that left two victims unconscious and others injured. The event occurred late Wednesday evening, drawing attention not only for its violence but also for the ongoing issues surrounding homelessness in the area. The man, identified as 37-year-old John Doe, faces charges that include aggravated assault and other related offenses, according to court documents filed on Thursday. Witnesses reported that the altercation began around 10 p.m. outside the Provo Inn and Suites, a frequent stop for travelers and those seeking short-term accommodations. Eyewitness accounts suggest that Doe approached a group of four individuals who were gathered outside the motel, leading to an unexpected and violent confrontation. "It happened so fast, one minute we were just talking, and the next, he was swinging at us!" recalled Sarah Smith, a 25-year-old guest at the motel who witnessed the attack. "I didn’t even have time to react before two of my friends were knocked out cold. It was terrifying." According to the Provo Police Department, Doe allegedly struck two men, aged 30 and 32, rendering them unconscious. Medical personnel arrived on the scene shortly after the incident to provide assistance and transport the injured parties to a local hospital for further evaluation. The remaining two individuals, a man and a woman, sustained minor injuries but did not require hospitalization. Local police were able to apprehend Doe shortly after the incident, thanks in part to rapid response from nearby officers who were on patrol. He was found nearby, still within the vicinity of the motel. Officers reported that he appeared disoriented and was uncooperative during the arrest. "This is a troubling situation that highlights the challenges we face with homelessness in our community," said Provo Police Chief John Smith during a press conference on Thursday. "We are committed to ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors, and we will continue to work on solutions that address not only the immediate violence but also the underlying issues that lead to these confrontations." The incident raises significant concerns about the safety of individuals both within the motel and the broader community, particularly as winter approaches and the number of homeless individuals in the area increases. According to local shelter reports, the number of homeless individuals in Utah has risen steadily over the past few years, with many seeking refuge in motels and public spaces as shelters often reach capacity. In response to the growing crisis, local organizations and city officials have been working to implement programs aimed at providing support to the homeless population, including mental health services, job training, and more accessible housing options. However, the resources available often fall short of the demand, leaving many vulnerable individuals without the necessary support. As for John Doe, he is currently being held at the Utah County Jail, with bail set at $100,000. His arraignment is scheduled for next week, where he will face the charges against him. If convicted, he could face significant jail time, particularly given the severity of the assaults. The Provo community is left grappling with the implications of this incident, as residents call for increased safety measures around the motel and surrounding areas. "We need more security and support for both the people staying here and the ones who live nearby," said Mike Johnson, a local resident. "This can't keep happening." Local leaders are advocating for a comprehensive approach to tackle the dual challenges of homelessness and public safety, emphasizing the need for community engagement and collaboration among local businesses, city officials, and non-profit organizations. As this story develops, many are hoping for both justice for the victims and a renewed focus on addressing the causes of homelessness in Provo. The community’s response to this incident will likely shape ongoing discussions about how to better support those in need while ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens. As the prosecution prepares to move forward with the case against Doe, the hope remains that this tragic event can serve as a catalyst for change within the community, fostering a safer and more supportive environment for everyone involved. In the meantime, the victims of the attack are recovering, and their families are relieved that they are expected to make a full recovery. The impact of this violent incident, however, lingers, leaving both the victims and the community to reflect on the urgent need for solutions to the complex issues surrounding homelessness and public safety in Provo.