Suspect charged in early morning bar stabbing

By Jim Hagerty
Staff Writer

A 24-year-old man has been charged with aggravated battery for allegedly stabbing two people outside Latham Tap early this morning, Dec. 30.

According to police, officers were called to the bar at approximately 1 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 30, after receiving reports of a fight.

Police said a bouncer escorted Matthew Zobal, 24, out of the bar when he suspected him of illegal drug activity.

Outside, a struggle ensued, and Zobal allegedly stabbed the bouncer twice in the chest. Police said a male patron, who witnessed the fight, tried to assist the bouncer.

As the fight continued, the suspect also stabbed the patron in the stomach, police said.

Both victims are expected to survive, although police did not release their names.

As of press time, Zobal was lodged in the Winnebago County Justice Center. He faces two counts of aggravated battery and one count of possession of marijuana.

It is not known when Zobal is scheduled to appear in court or if he has an attorney.