UTICA, NY — Utica police responded to a fight involving knives at a North Utica Walmart on April 26, 2026.
Officers were dispatched to the store at approximately 12:35 p.m. regarding a disturbance involving individuals with knives.
Upon arrival, officers found several people arguing and observed a female holding a large knife.
Officers drew their weapons and ordered the female to drop the knife, which was then taken from her by other individuals nearby.
Officers then noticed she was holding another knife in her other hand, which was also removed before she was placed in handcuffs.
Police determined the initial aggressor had approached other parties near the rear of the store and began an argument.
The argument escalated into a physical altercation that moved through the majority of the store until all parties reached the checkout area.
The knives were store property and had been removed from their original packaging during the fight in an effort to use them as weapons.
While officers were completing paperwork regarding charges, another altercation broke out in the parking lot.
That group was dispersed.
Phoenix Lee, 20, of Utica, was charged with two counts of harassment in the second degree and disorderly conduct.
Wakia Arnold, 23, of Utica, was charged with disorderly conduct and criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree.
Additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
