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Wilkes-Barre Today
By the People, for the People
2 Injured in Hanover Twp. Knife Fight
Both men face aggravated assault charges after Sunday afternoon altercation.
Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:41am
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A knife fight in Hanover Township exposes the ongoing challenges of addressing violent crime in the local community.Wilkes-Barre TodayTwo men were injured in a knife fight that broke out on Sunday afternoon in Hanover Township, Pennsylvania. Kennie Acosta, 25, of Wilkes-Barre, and Dominick L. Irwin, 26, of Hanover Township, were both cut during the fight involving a knife along Lee Park Avenue. Both men were taken to the hospital for treatment of their injuries.
Why it matters
Violent crime and altercations involving weapons are concerning for the local community, raising questions about public safety and the need for conflict resolution programs. The incident also highlights the ongoing challenges of enforcing protection-from-abuse orders.
The details
According to police, the knife fight occurred around 2 p.m. on Sunday between Division and Oxford streets. Both Acosta and Irwin sustained injuries and were transported to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center for treatment. Irwin was released after treatment and charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, reckless endangerment, and disorderly conduct. He was also charged with an alleged violation of a protection-from-abuse order. Acosta will face the same charges as Irwin upon his release from the hospital.
- The knife fight occurred on Sunday, April 13, 2026 around 2 p.m.
- Irwin was arraigned by Magisterial District Judge Kyle Halesey and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on April 22, 2026.
The players
Kennie Acosta
A 25-year-old man from Wilkes-Barre who was injured in the knife fight and will face aggravated assault charges.
Dominick L. Irwin
A 26-year-old man from Hanover Township who was injured in the knife fight, was charged with aggravated assault and other offenses, and is being held at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing violent crime and enforcing protection orders in the local community. It underscores the need for improved conflict resolution programs and stronger measures to keep dangerous individuals off the streets.
