29-Year-Old Dahlton Fairbank of Bristol Identified as Suspect in Colburn Park Stabbing
LEBANON, NEW HAMPSHIRE — Authorities have identified Dahlton Fairbank, a 29-year-old resident of Bristol, as the primary suspect in a violent stabbing that occurred during the early morning hours of Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Colburn Park in downtown Lebanon. The incident, which left one person critically injured, has shaken the typically quiet Upper Valley community and sparked a multi-agency investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
According to the Lebanon Police Department, officers responded to reports of a stabbing around 6:15 a.m. near the gazebo at Colburn Park, a well-trafficked public green space that sits at the heart of the city. Upon arrival, first responders discovered a male victim suffering from life-threatening stab wounds. He was immediately transported to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, where he remains in critical condition as of the latest reports.
Suspect Identified, Investigation Ongoing
Shortly after the incident, detectives began interviewing witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from the surrounding downtown area. After piecing together key evidence, Dahlton Fairbank was identified as the suspect. Authorities have confirmed that Fairbank and the victim were acquainted, although the exact nature of their relationship and the motive behind the stabbing remain under investigation.
At the time of the attack, Fairbank had reportedly fled the scene on foot, prompting a temporary lockdown of nearby businesses and a public safety alert urging residents to remain vigilant. A manhunt ensued throughout the day, with police canvassing neighborhoods, interviewing individuals in the park area, and working with regional law enforcement partners.
As of this writing, officials have not confirmed whether Fairbank is in custody. The Lebanon Police Department is urging anyone with information about Fairbank’s whereabouts or the events leading up to the stabbing to come forward. Citizens can contact the department’s tip line anonymously or reach out directly through the city’s emergency communications center.
Community Reacts to Violence in Public Space
The violent incident has left many residents rattled, particularly due to its location in one of the city’s most visible and family-friendly areas. Colburn Park is a popular site for community events, farmer’s markets, and summer concerts, making the stabbing all the more alarming to those who frequent the area.
“This is not something we expect to see here,” said one local resident, who walks her dog near the park every morning. “It’s a peaceful place. It’s scary and deeply upsetting that something like this happened.”
City officials have increased patrols in the downtown area in the wake of the attack and are reviewing plans to enhance public safety in and around Colburn Park moving forward.
Who Is Dahlton Fairbank?
Not much is publicly known at this time about Dahlton Fairbank, though records indicate that he is originally from the Bristol area and may have recently spent time in Lebanon. Authorities are working to trace his recent activities and personal associations, and background checks are underway to determine if he has a criminal history.
As the investigation progresses, further details are expected to emerge regarding Fairbank’s connection to the victim and the events that led to the violent altercation.
A Call for Vigilance and Support
The Lebanon Police Department is asking residents to remain aware of their surroundings and to report any suspicious activity. Local organizations are also mobilizing support for the victim and his family, who are navigating an unimaginable ordeal while awaiting updates from the medical team.
A community prayer vigil is being planned by local faith groups, with further details to be announced in the coming days.