Staff report

CHINA GROVE — A China Grove man who was stabbed early Saturday morning waited several hours before seeking medical treatment.

Nelson Joel Atkinson, 28, of 142 Third Ave., walked home from the Main Street Pub around 2:15 a.m. Saturday.

As he arrived home, someone came up from the rear, stabbing or cutting him in the lower right abdomen region, according to police reports.

Police Chief Hodge Coffield said Atkinson, who was apparently very intoxicated, wrapped a towel around the wound and tried to stop the bleeding.

Hours later he called friend to take him to Rowan Regional Medical Center. The wound was apparently not life-threatening.

Hospital officials notified the Salisbury Police, who in turn notified China Grove Police.

Coffield said there was a witness to the incident and they have a suspect.

Officers Gregory Livengood and James Briggs are working the case.