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Aspiring Model Arrested After Summit County Machete Attack

(CBS4) - Authorities in Summit County say a young, aspiring model is behind a brutal machete attack in Colorado's high country.

Tyrus Vanmatre, 20, of Littleton, faces attempted murder charges after police say he lured the 18-year-old victim into the woods at night with the intention of killing him.

The attack happened earlier this week at night in a forested area. So far the motive is unclear, but police say Vanmatre told the victim they were going to a party in the mountains.

The victim, who is from Wyoming, was able to get away after the assault began and hide in the woods. He was later spotted by a Summit County Sheriff's deputy stumbling along a road and covered in blood with severe lacerations on his face and head.

Tyrus Vanmatre
Tyrus Vanmatre (credit: Summit County Sheriff)

The district attorney says Vanmatre may have been injured when his victim tried to fight back. Both men are currently being treated for their injuries at St. Anthony's Hospital in Lakewood.

Vanmatre made his first appearance before a judge through a Skype video link set up from his hospital bed.

Investigators searched Vanmatre's Littleton home Friday for evidence.

Neighbors told CBS4 they never noticed anything unusual at the home.

They say Vanmatre used to be an avid hockey player.

In an online model profile page Vanmatre writes in his profile that "I used to be a hockey player so I am very familiar with competition. I have never been an actor but I am taking an acting and modeling class."

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