Providence stabbing suspect previously charged in stabbing of 2 children

Nelson Blanco, 46, was arrested Wednesday after an alleged attack near Broad and Public streets. The toddler remains in critical condition.

In 2003, Blanco was charged in connection with the stabbing of two children. Before the incident, he had reportedly been admitted to and released from Eleanor Slater Hospital three times. He was later found incompetent to stand trial.

Court records show Blanco has faced other charges over the years, including assault and battery, breaking and entering, and possession of a stolen vehicle.

His most recent arrest before Wednesday’s attack was in 2024. Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez said Blanco was arrested on domestic violence charges in North Providence.

In July 2025, Blanco was released into the custody of the Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals (BHDDH).

He was found incompetent to stand trial in the domestic violence case in July 2026. A judge accepted a doctor’s recommendation that Blanco remain on an outpatient basis.

The recommendation stated that he was “not likely to imperil the peace and safety of the community or himself at this time.”

Blanco now faces several charges related to Wednesday’s attack. They include two counts of assault with intent to commit murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and breaking and entering the home of a person over 60. He is also charged with possessing a knife while committing a violent crime and possessing a knife with a blade longer than three inches.

Details of the Providence stabbing

Police said Blanco first approached the mother and daughter near 726 Broad St. and made insulting remarks toward the woman.

The mother crossed the street with her daughter, who was in a stroller. They stayed in the area while she waited for her other children to get off the school bus.

Perez said Blanco approached them again and continued making insulting comments before attacking them with a knife. The mother also reported that Blanco grabbed her during the incident.

Witnesses intervened, and Blanco fled. One witness followed him and alerted police after he entered a home on Daboll Street.

A woman was in the kitchen when Blanco entered the house, but she was not injured. Officers later forced their way inside and found Blanco barricaded in the basement. He was taken into custody.

Perez said Blanco admitted to the attack during a police interview. His motive remains unclear.

Blanco appeared in court Thursday. No plea was entered, and he was ordered held as a bail violator.