Portland, Oregon — A violent incident at a local strip club has left a DJ hospitalized with serious injuries, including a punctured lung, following an alleged stabbing by an exotic dancer. The disturbing event, reported to have occurred in the early morning hours of December 8 at the Casa Diablo Vegan Strip Club, has shocked the community and led to the arrest of 29-year-old Peyton Colby Lathan.
According to police, DJ Duncan Allen, 38, was performing his set when he was unexpectedly attacked from behind. Recalling the terrifying moment, Allen described the sensation as being struck by a force of immense magnitude. He initially thought he was being confronted by a large assailant, only to discover that his attacker was actually one of the dancers, wielding a knife.
Security cameras within the venue captured the chilling sequence, showing Lathan allegedly stabbing Allen four times in the back. The footage, now part of an ongoing investigation, details the swift and unprovoked nature of the attack.
Allen sustained multiple injuries, including wounds to his hand, back, side, and armpit. The punctured lung he suffered made it difficult for him to breathe. As the attacker fled the scene, Allen’s colleagues rushed to provide first aid, applying pressure to the wounds while awaiting the arrival of emergency services.
Responding officers located Lathan hiding in nearby bushes with two small knives. One of the knives appeared to have blood on the blade, enhancing the severity of the charges against her. She was subsequently arrested and has been charged with second-degree assault, attempted assault in the first-degree, and unlawful use of a weapon. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office confirmed these details following her booking.
In a turn of legal events, Lathan pleaded insanity during her initial court proceedings. She is currently being held without bail and awaits further psychiatric assessment and a formal arraignment scheduled for Tuesday.
The motive behind this vicious assault remains unclear. Allen, reflecting on his professional interactions with Lathan, stated on social media that their work relationship had been without previous conflict. By all accounts, the attack was unanticipated and has left him and his colleagues deeply unsettled.
Johnny Diablo Žūklė, the owner of the club, remarked on Lathan’s general demeanor prior to the incident, describing her as slightly erratic but never overtly violent. He speculated that Lathan may have been experiencing a severe mental health crisis, possibly leading up to the attack.
Allen, after being released from the hospital, is recovering at home and grappling with the physical and emotional aftermath of the incident. He mentioned that thoughts of his pet dog, Stone, whom he cherished deeply, gave him strength during the ordeal. A GoFundMe page has been established to assist with his ongoing medical expenses.
The Portland Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack, emphasizing their commitment to understanding the full scope of events and ensuring community safety. Further updates are expected as new information becomes available.