Authorities: Man used hatchet in Elks club attack

JERSEY CITY, N.J. (AP) -- Aggravated assault charges have been filed against a man who allegedly attacked another man with a hatchet.

Authorities tell The Jersey Journal that 51-year-old Edward Kearns of Jersey City was arguing with a woman inside a local Elks Club when the victim tried to intervene. The 25-year-old victim ended up with severe swelling on both sides of his face, a swollen lip and other minor injuries, while Kearns suffered some cuts.

Kearns also faces weapons charges stemming from the attack. He told police that the victim had attacked him, but witnesses said Kearns was the aggressor with both the woman and the victim.

A telephone number for Kearns could not be located Monday. It was not known if he has retained an attorney.
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