Tewksbury Police Reveal Details of Alleged Attempted Murder by Melrose Man

Tewksbury Police said Monday that a homeless man formerly of Melrose was arrested on Friday night after he threw a lamp at a woman and allegedly attempted to strangle her.

Police said that at 8:44 p.m. officers were called to 704 Ames Pond Drive for a report of a disturbance. When police arrived, they were met in the driveway by a woman who said she was attacked in her home by a man who was staying with her.

The woman told officers that James David Doherty, 52, of 24 Vine Street, Apt. 6, Melrose, was temporarily staying with her and her husband because he was homeless.

Officers said that the caller "appeared upset and frightened" when they located her. Police added that she had several cuts on her shoulders, and was bleeding from the nose.

According to the woman, she arrived to her apartment Friday night and found Doherty intoxicated. The woman told officers that she asked Doherty to leave, but he refused and punched her in the face.

Doherty then allegedly threw a lamp and a full beverage can at her, and threatened to kill her and her husband.

"He then grabbed the victim by the throat, placed both of his hands around her neck, and began to strangle her," police said on Monday night.

The woman then broke free of Doherty's grip, fled the residence and called police.

When officers arrived at the home, they found Doherty inside and arrested him. They noted that Doherty had what appeared to be self-inflicted wounds to his wrist and hand.

Doherty was transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation and treatment. According to police, while at the hospital, Doherty told officers that he would kill the victim and added that "he would make the news."

Police said that Doherty was transported to Lowell District Court on Monday morning to be arraigned on several charges.

The Melrose man is charged with attempted murder by strangulation, two counts of assault by means of a dangerous weapon, domestic assault and battery, wanton destruction of property, and two counts of threats to commit murder.