S.C. man arrested for allegedly cutting someone’s toes off with machete during argument

HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (TCD) -- A 32-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault and other charges after he allegedly cut off a man’s toes during an argument.

According to WBTW-TV, on April 3, Horry County Police Department officers responded to a stabbing call at an apartment complex near Surfside Beach and found the victim on the ground. The victim had reportedly crawled to the front door to open it.

The victim told police he and Matthew Hellman had previously been feuding, and Hellman went to his apartment that night. The two got into a disagreement, which led to Hellman allegedly attacking him with a machete. The victim said he was on the ground with his leg and arms up in a "defensive position," but Hellman swung the machete at him. As a result, the victim lost two toes on his left foot.

Hellman then allegedly started throwing plates and bowls at the victim before fleeing. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Horry County Jail records show Hellman was booked on April 16 on charges of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature and three counts of possession of firearms and ammunition. He is being held without bail.

Hellman has previous arrests, including in May 2023 for unlawful possession, purchase, or use of body armor by person convicted of a violent crime, possession of firearms, and other charges. In 2014, Hellman pleaded guilty to armed robbery and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

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