Staff Report / May 27, 2026
Local elected officials and community leaders are speaking out following the violent assault at the Super 8 Motel in Bath that left a 39-year-old man hospitalized with serious injuries. The incident, which resulted in gang assault charges against three men, has renewed concerns about crime, public safety, and conditions at certain lodging properties within the village.
According to Bath Village Police, officers responded to the motel on West Morris Street after receiving reports of an unconscious man who may have fallen and struck his head. Investigators later determined the victim’s injuries were allegedly the result of a severe assault. The victim was airlifted to a trauma center and was later reported to be in guarded but stable condition.
Police charged 61-year-old William Hargrave, 34-year-old Adam El-Gaaly, and 25-year-old Cheyne Bonnewell with first-degree gang assault. Authorities said all three men allegedly participated in the attack and knew the victim. Hargrave was additionally charged with first-degree robbery after investigators said he was found with property belonging to the victim.
In the days following the assault, local officials expressed concern about repeated law enforcement activity connected to the motel property and broader public safety challenges facing the community. According to WENY, village and county leaders said the incident highlighted the need for stronger oversight, cooperation between agencies, and continued discussions about how to address recurring criminal activity in the area. Bath Village Mayor Michael Sweet is quoted as saying:
“I mean, sadly, like I said, there’s no qualifications, no standards to my knowledge,” said Village of Bath Mayor Michael Sweet. “People just go in business, and they think they can take advantage of the state. It’s a state welfare program, and that’s the problem.” and “I have actually heard from the owner of the Super 8, because we’re taking this serious,” Sweet said. “If the county chooses to do nothing, then we will absolutely declare it a safety threat to the community, and we will condemn the property until the safety plan is approved by the Village Board.”
Authorities emphasized that the assault was an isolated incident involving individuals known to one another and said there was no continuing threat to the public. The investigation remains ongoing, and police have indicated additional charges could still be filed as investigators continue reviewing evidence related to the case.
