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The 33-year-old man arrested by Fort Collins police earlier this morning has been identified as Gary Lee Johnson (D.O.B. 4/30/78) of Fort Collins and is presently in the custody of the Larimer County jail for 2nd Degree Assault (F4) and Felony Menacing (F5).

Johnson allegedly stabbed 48-year-old Heber Richardson (D.O.B. 8/29/63), also known as Rick Richardson, in the lower back after arguing over the return of personal property. Richardson, carrying an ax handle, confronted Johnson in his apartment. Johnson grabbed a kitchen knife and chased Richardson out of the apartment to the west parking lot with each swinging their respective weapons. Richardson allegedly hit Johnson with the ax handle and Johnson stabbed Richardson in the back during the disturbance.

Richardson was transported to the hospital for treatment of a single stab wound before being taken to the Larimer County jail on charges of Felony Menacing (F5). Both weapons have been recovered. A booking photograph of Richardson is attached. No booking photograph of Johnson is available at this time as he is being uncooperative with the booking process.

Police are continuing to investigate the incident.

Anyone with information about this incident who has not already spoken with police is asked to contact Detective John Pierick at 970-221-6880 or Crime Stoppers of Larimer County at 970-221-6868. Crime Stoppers may also be reached through their web site at www.stopcriminals.org.

The charge is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.