An alarming incident unfolded in Mill Creek, Washington, where an 11-year-old boy was stabbed outside a Dollar Tree after he and a friend insulted a man by calling him an "NPC," a gaming term that implies a lack of independent thought. The boys were reportedly chased into the store, where the man attacked the younger boy, causing serious injuries to his lung and liver. Witnesses expressed disbelief at the escalation, with the boys shouting that "it's not that serious" as they ran. The injured boy's mother recounted the harrowing experience of seeing her son in the ICU, emphasizing the severity of his condition and the ongoing care required post-surgery. Local authorities arrested 29-year-old Joshua David Pence, who faces two counts of assault with a deadly weapon.

This incident has raised significant concerns among parents in Mill Creek, prompting them to reevaluate their community's safety. Both families, who moved to the area seeking a safe environment, are now left feeling vulnerable. The attack has sparked discussions about the increasing violence in seemingly peaceful neighborhoods, with parents calling for greater awareness and vigilance.