Second stabbing suspect sought

GREELEY, Colo. – Police said Friday they are looking for a second suspect in the stabbing of the Northern Colorado football team’s starting punter.

Evans police Lt. Gary Kessler said witnesses saw an alleged accomplice standing near the getaway car Monday night just after punter Rafael Mendoza was stabbed in his kicking leg outside his apartment in the small town adjacent to Greeley.

“He didn’t play a role in the assault, but he played a role in the crime,” Kessler said.

Northern Colorado backup punter Mitch Cozad is accused of stabbing Mendoza.

Not long after Monday’s attack, a liquor store employee called police and said two men were removing tape from the front and rear license plates of a car in the parking lot, which led police to the family of Cozad.

“We haven’t ruled anything out, and the investigation is still open,” Kessler said.

Arrested Tuesday, Cozad is free on $30,000 bond. He has been kicked off the football team and suspended from school.

Mendoza was treated and released from the hospital, but will miss today’s game at Texas State.

“I want everyone to know I am doing well … ,” Mendoza said.