NY man loses part of ear in cookout machete attack

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (AP) — Authorities say a New York ex-convict lopped off part of a man’s ear with a 3-foot machete during a cookout.

Police say the man was at Russell Duffney’s home in Saratoga Springs on Tuesday night when Duffney swung the machete, severing part of his left ear and slashing his face.

Officers were called to Saratoga Hospital after the victim arrived at around 8 p.m. The man, who’s in serious condition, told police he was attacked during a cookout at Duffney’s home.

Police later arrested the 46-year-old Duffney on charges of assault and criminal possession of a weapon. Officials say he was taken to the hospital after suffering chest pains and will be arraigned after he’s released.

Police say Duffney has a lengthy criminal history and is on probation.