A 19-year-old man stabbed repeatedly early Sunday morning in Santa Paula would not cooperate with police trying to identify his attacker.
According to Santa Paula Police Sgt. Jeremy Watson, the incident was reported July 12 at approximately 12:48 a.m. when SPPD Dispatch “received a report of a stabbing that just occurred in the area of Orchard Street and 13th Street,” on the east side of the city.
When officers responded Watson said they found a 19-year-old unidentified male resident of Santa Paula, “in the middle of the roadway. The victim sustained multiple stab wounds during an apparent fight.”
He immediately was transported to Ventura County Medical Center where it was determined that although the victim had been stabbed repeatedly in his torso, his injuries were not life-threatening.
Watson noted the initial investigation “resulted in no evidence” leading to a suspect or suspects as the victim himself and “potential witnesses in the area” did not cooperate.
“There was a party in the area and we contacted them but none,” at the gathering provided any evidence.
Law enforcement usually associates such lack of cooperation as a strong indicator of gang involvement.
And the victim, said Watson, “Is documented in our system as a local gang member…”
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Santa Paula Police Department, 805-525-4474.
If those with information would prefer to remain anonymous, they can call the SPPD recorded Tip Hotline, 933-5691 or email tips to tipline@spcity.org
Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for certain crimes. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477); the call is not recorded and the caller may remain anonymous.
Ventura County Crime Stoppers can also be contacted by texting “Busted” plus your message to CRIMES (274637). venturacountycrimestoppers.org
