Upper Burrell, PA -- An Upper Burrell police officer suffered a laceration to his hand after subduing a knife-wielding suspect following a domestic related incident.

Upper Burrell Police responded to a residence on Irwin Drive on August 20, 2026 for a physical domestic dispute between Marco Ciappetta, 30, and a relative. 

Upper Burrell Police were aware of Ciappetta from previous incidents that involved assaults on law enforcement and requested backup from surrounding departments. 

The relative relayed to police that Ciappetta did not have access to firearms but did have access to knives. 

Upper Burrell Police attempted to verbally engage with Ciappetta but did not receive a response. 

As the police officer approached the rear of the residence to observe inside of the windows, Ciappetta flew through a rear door, wielding a knife above his head, and shouting “I am going to kill you” at the police officer. 

The Upper Burrell officer said Ciappetta charged at him and thrusted the knife in a downward direction toward the officer’s head. 

The officer was forced to engage with Ciappetta as he waited for responding officers. 

After a brief struggle, the Upper Burrell officer was able to gain control of Ciappetta, disarm him, and detain him until supporting officers arrived. 

The Upper Burrell police officer involved in the altercation with Ciappetta suffered a laceration on his hand near his wrist which was considered minor. 

Ciappetta is facing charges of aggravated assault, assault on a law enforcement officer, simple assault, terroristic threats, recklessly endangering another person, resisting arrest, and other related charges. 

Disclaimer: To the extent that pending criminal matters are discussed, all such charges are merely accusations and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.