Fall River Police Make Arrest in Machete Assault
Authorities arrested Jason Ramalho, while a search continues for Danny Nieves following an attack near a tent city.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Violence
Police arrested 39-year-old Jason Ramalho for an October 15 machete assault on a 35-year-old man in a Fall River tent city. Ramalho remains in custody as authorities search for a second suspect, 38-year-old Danny Nieves.
Why it matters
The investigation highlights ongoing safety concerns in Fall River encampments following a violent incident involving a weapon that left a victim hospitalized with head injuries.
Jason Ramalho is being held on a $75,000 surety bond or $7,500 cash bail after pleading not guilty to assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and armed robbery. A probable cause hearing is set for November 13.
The players
Jason Ramalho
The 39-year-old suspect faces charges of armed robbery and assault with a dangerous weapon.
Danny Nieves
The 38-year-old suspect is currently sought by police on an active arrest warrant.
CAST Team
This local police unit led the investigation and subsequent arrest of the suspect.
Fall River District Court
This judicial body is overseeing the criminal proceedings and arraignment for the defendant.
The details
The assault took place at an encampment near Brayton Avenue and Route 24, resulting in the victim being transported to Rhode Island Hospital. Police identified the suspects through an investigation conducted by the CAST Team.
Timeline
The machete assault occurred on October 15, 2026.
Acting Chief Hoar discussed the incident on October 18, 2026.
Jason Ramalho was arrested and arraigned on October 23, 2026.
A probable cause hearing is scheduled for November 13, 2026.
Legal Context
This machete attack follows a pattern set by the 2026 city-wide increase in encampment-related incident reporting. Such violent crimes are currently being prosecuted under strict state statutes governing armed robbery and dangerous weapon offenses.
Residents living near Brayton Avenue and Route 24 may notice increased police activity while the search for Danny Nieves continues. Authorities have identified the incident site as a specific tent city area, which remains a focus of ongoing security patrols.
The takeaway
Violent incidents involving weapons in local encampments underscore the importance of maintaining situational awareness in these areas. Residents should report any information regarding the whereabouts of wanted suspects like Danny Nieves to local authorities immediately.
What happens next
A probable cause hearing for Jason Ramalho is scheduled for November 13, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local public safety trends in the Fall River Violence section.
