Wisconsin man sees his ex-wife with a man in a bar and stabs him

GREEN BAY, WI – A Green Bay man is facing attempted homicide charges after a stabbing at a local bar on Halloween night, authorities said.

Police say Robert Stanley Goodletson, 47, was arrested after allegedly attacking another man inside the Hammer Inn, a bar located on State Street. The incident happened around 8:45 p.m. on October 31, according to information provided by law enforcement officials and court documents.

Officers responded to a report of a stabbing and found the victim outside the bar, suffering from multiple wounds to his chest and a deep cut to his head. Emergency crews treated the man on the scene before taking him to St. Vincent Hospital. Despite his injuries, authorities said he was conscious and able to speak with investigators.

According to statements given to police, the confrontation began when Goodletson noticed the victim in the bar with his ex-wife. Witnesses described Goodletson as becoming agitated upon seeing them together. The victim told police that Goodletson began shouting across the bar, and when he tried to approach, Goodletson allegedly grabbed him. The victim said he did not recall exactly how he managed to get away, but realized he was bleeding once he was outside.

Investigators soon located Goodletson behind the bar and placed him under arrest. Officers observed what appeared to be blood on his hands, and during a search, they found a knife sheathed on his belt, officials said.

During questioning, Goodletson reportedly told officers that his motive was linked to what he believed to be an affair between his wife and the victim. Goodletson claimed the two were still married at the time and made statements indicating he believed the victim was fortunate to have survived the attack. He also referenced his license to carry a concealed weapon. Goodletson said he acted in self-defense, authorities said.

Surveillance camera footage from the Hammer Inn appeared to support accounts of an altercation. The video allegedly captured Goodletson reacting angrily upon seeing the victim, pushing him against a wall, and then stabbing him repeatedly.

Goodletson has been charged with one count of attempted first-degree intentional homicide with the use of a dangerous weapon. He remains in custody at the Brown County Jail, with his bond set at $250,000. Court records indicate Goodletson made his initial court appearance this week, with a follow-up hearing scheduled for November 18.

The victim was treated for his injuries and has since provided a detailed statement to investigators. Police have not released further information about his current condition.

Authorities continue to review evidence in the case, and the investigation is ongoing.