Man Convicted in Ax Attack on Roommate

A Marblehead man was found guilty Thursday of assault charges in connection with an ax attack on a roommate a year ago on Washington Street.

Michael Kelley, 53, was sentenced at a bench trial in Lynn District Court to 90 days served in jail as well as two 21/2-year suspended sentences.

Kelley was found guilty of aggravated assault and battery and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, court records state.

Kelley faces a total of 5 years in the House of Corrections if he violates conditions of his probation, the records state. Those conditions include maintaining good behavior and undergoing random drug and alcohol screening.

On Dec. 6,  at 9:40 p.m., Marblehead police officers responded to 296 Washington St., Apt. 1A, for a report of a fight and were reportedly flagged down by a hysterical woman with blood on her hands, face and clothing, the police report states. 

When police entered the apartment, they reportedly discovered Kelley and another man sitting in the kitchen and found blood all over the ceiling, walls and floor, the report states.

A witness to the alleged attack told officers that the two men were drunk and arguing over past-due rent when Kelley grabbed an ax and struck the victim in the wrist, according to the report.

Kelley told officers that his roommate had first struck him with a shovel and a guitar, according to the report.