Guilderland, NY – A Guilderland man is facing multiple felony charges, including Attempted Murder, following a violent altercation that left a 44-year-old man seriously injured in the early hours of Sunday, April 20, 2025.
At approximately 12:46 AM, officers from the Guilderland Police Department were dispatched to 4 Windingbrook Drive in response to an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) call. First responders arrived on the scene to find a male victim suffering from a deep laceration to his left side, consistent with a sharp weapon injury. The victim was stabilized at the scene by Guilderland EMS and then transported to Albany Medical Center, where he received further treatment for significant wounds to his back and abdominal area.
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed by authorities, was reported to be in serious but stable condition after undergoing immediate surgery and care at the hospital. Doctors are cautiously optimistic about his recovery, though his injuries are considered life-threatening.
After a swift and thorough investigation, police determined that the attack had occurred at 3 Windingbrook Drive, and the suspect had fled or otherwise distanced himself from the initial response site. The alleged assailant was quickly identified as Douglas R. Martak, 54, a resident of Guilderland. According to police, Martak and the victim were involved in a violent altercation during which Martak used a sharp weapon to slash the victim, causing serious bodily harm. The exact nature of the dispute remains unclear, and authorities have not yet released details on what led to the confrontation.
Following the investigation and accumulation of evidence, Douglas Martak was arrested on Tuesday, April 22, and charged with multiple felony offenses:
Attempted Murder in the Second Degree
Assault in the First Degree
Assault in the Second Degree
Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree
Martak was arraigned in Guilderland Town Court before Honorable Judge Tabak and has since been remanded to the Albany County Jail pending further legal proceedings. He is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing next week. His defense attorney has yet to make a statement.
Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for the attack, nor have they confirmed the nature of the relationship between Martak and the victim. Investigators are continuing to follow leads and interview witnesses to gain a fuller understanding of the events that led up to the violence. There is speculation among neighbors that the altercation may have been sparked by a personal dispute, but investigators have refrained from commenting on any potential causes until the investigation is complete.
The Guilderland Police Department emphasized that this appears to be an isolated incident and that there is no ongoing threat to the community. However, they encourage anyone with additional information about the altercation or either party involved to contact them directly.
The department’s swift action in locating and arresting the suspect has been praised by the public. Guilderland Police Chief Thomas Myers stated, “We take these types of incidents very seriously. Our department acted quickly and in coordination with our local partners to bring the individual responsible for this violent crime into custody. We are committed to ensuring that justice is served and that our community remains safe.”
Residents of the Windingbrook Drive neighborhood have expressed shock over the incident, describing the area as generally quiet and peaceful. Several neighbors have since commended local EMS and police for their quick response and professionalism under tense circumstances. “It’s a small community, so something like this really shakes you,” said one long-time resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “We never expect something like this to happen so close to home.”
Another neighbor, who also wished to remain anonymous, added, “It’s unsettling, but I know the police are doing everything they can to figure out what happened. I’m just hoping the victim makes a full recovery.”
As the case moves through the judicial system, more details may become available surrounding the events of April 20. For now, the community remains on edge as it processes the gravity of a violent crime that occurred within its borders.
Local mental health services are expected to offer support to residents who may be struggling with the emotional aftermath of the incident. The Guilderland community, known for its close-knit nature, is already beginning to rally around those affected by the crime, particularly the victim’s family.
“The community’s support for the victim’s family has been heartwarming,” said another neighbor. “Everyone is trying to help in whatever way they can, and we hope that justice will be served so that the healing can begin.”
The case has already prompted discussions on social media, with many Guilderland residents expressing their disbelief and sadness over the events. Some have called for increased attention to domestic violence and conflict resolution resources to prevent similar incidents in the future. Others have voiced concern over the accessibility of dangerous weapons and how these situations could be avoided if disputes were handled in a less violent manner.
While the focus remains on the ongoing investigation, some have also taken to organizing community discussions and events aimed at healing and fostering understanding. A local nonprofit has expressed interest in hosting a public meeting to discuss ways to prevent violence and promote peace in the community.
A memorial for the victim has been planned by local residents, and fundraising efforts are underway to assist with medical expenses and other related costs for the victim’s family. The Guilderland Police Department has also pledged to keep the public informed as more details about the case emerge, and they continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the crime.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as new information becomes available.
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