This article is related to a previous incident: Disturbance, Bookcliff Ave & N 26th St
From the Grand Junction Police Department:
On May 30, 2025, at approximately 1:25 p.m., dispatchers with the Grand Junction Regional Communication Center received a report of a male who had threatened to kill someone.
A group of missionaries had been visiting a male, who was reportedly intoxicated, at his residence in the 2100 block of N 26th Street. During the visit, the male physically assaulted one of the missionaries in the kitchen. The group immediately left the residence, and a roommate arrived shortly afterward. The suspect then attempted to stab the roommate with a knife, who was able to restrain him until law enforcement arrived.
Officers with the Grand Junction Police Department responded quickly and safely took the suspect into custody.
The suspect, identified as Joel Ballantyne (age 33), was transported to the Mesa County Detention Facility and booked on the following charges:
- Attempted 1stย Degree Assault
- Felony Menacing
- Attempted 2ndย Degree Assault on a Peace Officer
- Menacing
- Harassment
- Restraining Order Violation
This is believed to be an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to the community. The investigation is ongoing, and no additional information is available at this time.