Stabbing Reported at Bally's Twin River Lincoln Casino

Police apprehend suspect after incident at Rhode Island casino

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

A stabbing incident occurred at Bally's Twin River Lincoln Casino in Lincoln, Rhode Island on Tuesday night. The Lincoln Police Department, with assistance from the Rhode Island State Police, Providence Police, and Bally's security teams, were able to quickly identify and apprehend the 27-year-old suspect, William Pona of Providence. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Why it matters

Incidents of violence at casinos can raise concerns about public safety and security measures in place at these entertainment venues. The collaborative response by multiple law enforcement agencies demonstrates the importance of coordination to rapidly address such situations.

The details

According to the Lincoln Police Department, the stabbing incident occurred around 10:30 PM on Tuesday night at Bally's Twin River Lincoln Casino. The suspect, William Pona, was taken into custody at the scene. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment of their injuries.

  • The stabbing incident occurred around 10:30 PM on Tuesday, March 4, 2026.

The players

William Pona

A 27-year-old resident of Providence, Rhode Island who was arrested and taken into custody as the suspect in the stabbing incident.

Lincoln Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and coordinated with other agencies to apprehend the suspect.

Rhode Island State Police

Assisted the Lincoln Police Department in the investigation and response to the stabbing incident at the casino.

Providence Police

Assisted the Lincoln Police Department in the investigation and response to the stabbing incident at the casino.

Bally's Twin River Casino Security

The casino's security teams worked with law enforcement to provide information and coordinate the response to the stabbing incident.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This incident quickly became a multijurisdictional effort. With the assistance of the Rhode Island State Police, Providence Police, and Bally's Twin River Casino Security and Surveillance teams, investigators were able to rapidly gather information, identify the suspect, and coordinate efforts across jurisdictions.”

— Lincoln Police Department (Lincoln Police Department media release)

What’s next

The suspect, William Pona, is scheduled to be arraigned on Wednesday at the Kent County Courthouse.

The takeaway

The coordinated response by multiple law enforcement agencies and casino security teams demonstrates the importance of collaboration in quickly addressing incidents of violence at entertainment venues like casinos. This case highlights the need for robust security measures and emergency protocols to ensure public safety.