PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Police say a man was hospitalized after he was stabbed in the chest outside a convenience store in Providence.

Police responded to reports of a stabbing around 8 p.m. Saturday in the city’s West End neighborhood. Police say a woman told them she and two friends were walking in the area when a man and woman allegedly grabbed Andrew Tavares from behind and attempted to steal his backpack.

Police say Tavares was then stabbed twice in the chest by a male suspect. Another witness told police the male suspect fled with the woman after he attempted to help Tavares.

The Providence Journal reports Tavares was taken to Rhode Island Hospital where he remained in serious condition Sunday.

Police are investigating.

(Copyright (c) 2015 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

Join our Newsletter for the latest news right to your inbox