A terrifying confrontation between police and a knife-wielding suspect ended in chaos after an officer was stabbed inside an elevator, according to dramatic bodycam footage that has since gone viral.

Authorities say the incident unfolded late at night when officers responded to reports of a violent disturbance in an apartment complex. The suspect, described as agitated and aggressive, had reportedly been threatening residents with a knife before retreating into the building.

When officers located him near the elevator, the situation quickly turned violent. Bodycam video shows officers attempting to calm the suspect and persuade him to drop the weapon. Instead, the man suddenly lunged forward as the elevator doors opened — stabbing one of the officers before being tackled to the ground by backup units.

Screams and shouts can be heard in the video as officers restrain the man, who continued to resist even after being disarmed. The wounded officer can be seen collapsing to the floor, clutching his arm as his colleagues call for medical assistance.

Paramedics rushed to the scene within minutes and transported the injured officer to the hospital, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. “We are incredibly thankful that our officer is expected to recover,” a police spokesperson said in a statement. “This could have been much worse. The bravery and quick action of the responding team prevented further tragedy.”

The suspect, whose name has not yet been released, was taken into custody after a brief struggle. He now faces multiple serious charges, including assault with a deadly weapon and attempted murder of a law enforcement officer.

Witnesses in the building said they were terrified as the confrontation unfolded. “We heard shouting and then chaos,” one resident shared. “It all happened so fast — I looked out and saw officers rushing in. It was scary.”

The footage has since sparked widespread conversation online, with many praising the officers for their composure in an extremely dangerous situation. Others, however, have questioned whether the suspect was mentally unstable and if more could have been done to de-escalate the situation before it turned violent.

Law enforcement officials have reiterated that incidents involving edged weapons are among the most unpredictable and dangerous situations officers face. “A knife can be just as deadly as a firearm at close range,” said a police training expert. “In this case, the officers reacted as best they could under immense pressure.”

The injured officer, who has been with the department for several years, is currently recovering and receiving support from colleagues and the community. Fellow officers have set up a fundraiser to assist with medical expenses and time off.

As the investigation continues, authorities have confirmed that the suspect remains in custody pending a court hearing. The department has also announced an internal review to ensure all protocols were followed.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement every day — and how a single moment can turn a routine call into a fight for survival.