By: Richard L. Smith
A man has been charged with attempted murder after authorities said a 40-year-old man was repeatedly stabbed during what investigators believe was a random attack at Wheeler Park in Union County.
According to a statement released by Kelly Martins, Union County Director of Communications, Union County Police were dispatched to Wheeler Park at approximately 1:36 p.m. on August 26 following a report of an aggravated assault.
As officers investigated, Linden Police encountered a man near Aviation Plaza in the area of Routes 1&9 and Stiles Street.
Authorities said the man allegedly told officers that he had stabbed another person inside Wheeler Park and was immediately detained.
A search of the park led authorities to a 40-year-old man suffering from multiple stab wounds near Stiles Street and Routes 1&9. Despite his injuries, officials said the victim was conscious and alert.
Linden Fire Department EMS and Union County Police personnel provided emergency medical assistance at the scene before the victim was transported to University Hospital in Newark. 
He was listed in stable condition.
Authorities identified the suspect as Mark Minotti, 27.
Minotti was taken to Union County Police headquarters, where he was interviewed and processed. He was subsequently charged with first-degree attempted murder, second-degree aggravated assault, aggravated assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and unlawful possession of a weapon.
Officials said Minotti was later transported to Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth. Authorities did not immediately disclose the reason for his hospitalization.
Based on the investigation, police believe the stabbing was a random attack involving a single suspect.
Officials said there is no continuing threat to visitors at Wheeler Park or residents in the surrounding community.