Man Arrested After Stabbing, Charging at Police with Knife in Burlington

27-year-old Kurt Allen Savage accused of attacking victim, then confronting officers

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:23pm

Police in Burlington, Iowa have arrested 27-year-old Kurt Allen Savage after he allegedly stabbed a man and then charged at officers with a knife. The victim was taken to the hospital for treatment of three stab wounds, while Savage was subdued by police after being tased twice.

Why it matters

Violent crimes involving weapons are a serious public safety concern in many communities. This incident highlights the risks that law enforcement officers face when responding to reports of violence, and the need for effective crisis intervention and de-escalation tactics.

The details

According to a criminal complaint, officers found the victim suffering from three stab wounds on the right side of his back after an argument with Savage. Police later located Savage outside the residence, where he was holding a knife and repeatedly rushed toward them while refusing orders to drop the weapon. He was eventually subdued after being tased twice, allowing officers to safely take the knife away.

  • The incident occurred early Thursday morning.
  • Savage was arrested and booked into the Des Moines County Jail.

The players

Kurt Allen Savage

A 27-year-old man arrested and charged in connection with the stabbing and confrontation with police.

The Victim

A man who suffered three stab wounds to his back during an argument with Savage.

Burlington Police

Law enforcement officers who responded to the incident, subdued Savage, and took him into custody.

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What’s next

Savage is being held on $25,000 cash-only bond and will face charges related to the stabbing and confrontation with police.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of effective crisis intervention and de-escalation tactics for law enforcement when responding to reports of violence, in order to protect both officers and the public.