Hopkinton, Massachusetts — A confrontation over jet ski activity at a Massachusetts lake has led to attempted murder charges after authorities say a 70-year-old man allegedly tried to drown a 21-year-old during a violent altercation captured on camera.
The incident unfolded Wednesday at Lake Maspenock’s Sandy Beach, where police say an argument quickly escalated into a physical fight in the water.
Dispute Began Over Jet Ski Activity
According to investigators, Steven Dana, 70, became upset over noise coming from a jet ski being used near the lake’s public boat ramp.
Police reports indicate Dana approached Matthew Duffy, 21, and several friends who were enjoying the lake and attempted to force them to leave the area.
Duffy reportedly told Dana:
“Let me have fun with my jetski.”
Dana allegedly responded by telling the younger man to take the watercraft elsewhere. Duffy maintained that he lived nearby and had every right to use the lake. As tensions increased, some members of the group allegedly challenged Dana during the verbal exchange.
Heated Confrontation Captured on Video
The group had reportedly been recording the interaction with a GoPro camera when the argument intensified. According to video obtained by local media, Dana threatened to call police before allegedly asking Duffy:
“Do you want me to shoot you”
Moments later, Dana reportedly walked directly toward Duffy and confronted him face-to-face. One of Duffy’s friends asked:
“Are you going to beat up a cripple?”
Dana allegedly replied:
“I don’t care, I’ll take a cripple.”
Authorities say Duffy was using crutches while recovering from serious injuries suffered in a previous accident.
Argument Turns Physical Near Water
Investigators allege Dana then slapped Duffy across the face before the situation turned violent. The two men reportedly began grappling before falling into the lake.
Police say Dana was later recorded allegedly holding Duffy underwater during the struggle. Several bystanders eventually intervened and separated the pair.
The confrontation ended only after other individuals stepped in to stop the altercation.
Victim Says He Feared for His Life
Following the incident, Duffy described the experience as terrifying.
Veteran Surfer Loses Life at Ocean Beach as Conditions Were Described as a ‘Washing Machine Cycle’
“I was so scared for my life because I can’t fight back, I broke practically everything and this guy’s on top of me under the water, I can’t see what’s going on, I can’t fight back,” Duffy said.
Neither man sought medical treatment following the confrontation. However, investigators later reviewed evidence and moved forward with serious criminal charges.
Attempted Murder Charges Filed
Authorities charged Dana with attempted murder, strangulation, and assault and battery on a disabled person.
He was arraigned in Framingham District Court and initially held without bail. A judge later ordered his release on a $7,500 cash bond.
The decision angered Duffy, who questioned why the suspect was allowed to leave custody so quickly.
“I’m fuming that he’s out now. This is insane. He just tried killing me two days ago, and then it’s like, apparently you can just pay bond, and it’s wiped clean,” Duffy said.
He also recalled feeling helpless once both men entered the water.
“When he toppled on me in the water, there was nothing I could do.”
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing evidence from the incident and witness accounts.
What are your thoughts on this confrontation and the charges filed in the case? Share your opinion respectfully in the comments below.
