Philadelphia Man Charged After Stabbing Planet Fitness Worker

Authorities say the suspect had been banned from the gym prior to the attack.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:05pm

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A 28-year-old Philadelphia man named Davier Massey has been arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder after allegedly stabbing a Planet Fitness employee multiple times, leaving the victim with life-threatening injuries. The attack occurred after an altercation between Massey and the employee, who had previously banned Massey from the gym.

Why it matters

Incidents of violence against gym employees are concerning, as fitness centers should be safe spaces for both workers and members. This case raises questions about gym security policies, employee training, and how to prevent escalation when dealing with banned or disruptive individuals.

The details

According to police, officers responded to the Planet Fitness location in Cheltenham Township around 12:30 pm on Thursday after receiving reports of a stabbing. They found the male employee suffering from multiple stab wounds and rushed him to a trauma center in critical condition. Investigators say the attack followed an altercation between Massey and the employee, though the specific reason for Massey's ban from the gym was not immediately clear.

  • The incident occurred around 12:30 pm on Thursday, April 5, 2026.
  • Massey was arrested shortly after the attack, near the scene of the crime.

The players

Davier Massey

A 28-year-old Philadelphia resident who had been banned from the Planet Fitness gym prior to the attack.

Planet Fitness Employee

A male employee of the Planet Fitness gym in Cheltenham Township who was stabbed multiple times by Massey, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.

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What they’re saying

“I can't believe this. I feel like I'm in a dream right now.”

— Gym-goer

“All the employees are nice and uplifting. It's a little shocking for something to happen right here.”

— Gym-goer

What’s next

Massey is being held without bail at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility as the investigation continues. Authorities have not yet released a motive for the attack or additional details about the confrontation that led to the stabbing.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for gyms to have robust security measures and employee training to de-escalate confrontations with banned or disruptive individuals. It also raises concerns about workplace violence and the importance of creating safe environments for both gym staff and members.