Joplin Man Charged After Watered Gardens Stabbing

Suspect pleads not guilty to first-degree assault and armed criminal action charges.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A 56-year-old homeless man in Joplin, Missouri has been charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action following a stabbing incident at the Watered Gardens nonprofit on Friday. The suspect, Bryan K. Gutierrez, pleaded not guilty during a video arraignment in Jasper County Circuit Court.

Why it matters

Violent crimes at nonprofit organizations and public spaces can raise concerns about safety and security in the community. This incident at Watered Gardens, a local charity that provides meals and services to the homeless, may prompt discussions about improving security measures and de-escalation training for staff.

The details

According to the probable cause statement, a police officer on patrol was flagged down by the victim, Steven Martin, who appeared to be bleeding from the chest after a verbal altercation with Gutierrez. Gutierrez was seen walking away from the scene with two knives in his hand, one of which had blood on it. Witnesses reported seeing Gutierrez backing away from Martin while holding a knife. Martin stated that Gutierrez approached him and stabbed him without warning.

  • The incident occurred on Friday at the Watered Gardens nonprofit in Joplin, Missouri.
  • Gutierrez pleaded not guilty during a video arraignment in Jasper County Circuit Court on February 10, 2026.
  • A bond review hearing is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on February 18, 2026.

The players

Bryan K. Gutierrez

A 56-year-old homeless man who has been charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action following the stabbing incident at Watered Gardens.

Steven Martin

The victim of the stabbing, who was standing outside Watered Gardens when Gutierrez approached him and allegedly stabbed him without warning.

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What they’re saying

“I spoke to {two witnesses} both who arrived just as I did. They both observed Gutierrez backing away form Martin with a knife in his hand.”

— Police Officer (Probable Cause Statement)

“Martin was walking toward Gutierrez before waving me in his direction. Gutierrez began walking away from the scene and continued to do so until he reached the east side of the parking lot. He eventually complied with officers after multiple commands.”

— Police Officer (Probable Cause Statement)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on February 18 whether or not to allow Bryan K. Gutierrez out on bail.

The takeaway

This incident at a local nonprofit organization highlights the need for improved security measures and de-escalation training to ensure the safety of both staff and visitors, especially in public spaces that serve vulnerable populations.