Chaos on the streets of Berkeley subsided when a suspected stabber, who had the community on edge, was detained this morning, authorities announced. Byron Decles, 23, was apprehended by Oakland Police Department officers, concluding a days-long manhunt that began after two individuals were savagely attacked last Thursday. According to a statement released by the Berkeley Police Department, the suspect was taken into custody "without incident."
The violent episode that thrust Berkeley into a tense shelter-in-place order unfolded near El Camino Real and Oakridge Steps. Police identified the assailant as Decles, a young man of medium height with blonde hair, who they claimed was likely armed and dangerous after the stabbing incident, which occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. The Berkeley Police Department, in an attempt to apprehend the suspect, had earlier broadcasted his description detailing a brown or red hoodie, black pants, a black hat, and a large black backpack. "Thank you to all the citizens who provided information to our department and helped achieve a successful outcome on this case," the Berkeley Police Department acknowledged in their statement.
The initial shelter-in-place order was lifted earlier, as per the report by Hoodline. The neighborhood which found itself thrust into the immediate aftermath of violence was paralyzed temporarily by the presence of an at-large Decles, whom the community was warned not to approach if spotted. Instead they were instructed to seek safety and dial 911.
Decles is now in police custody, the focus of the Berkeley Police shifts to the investigation of the motivations and circumstances leading up to the stabbings. The authorities continue their appeal for more information from the public to aid in their ongoing investigation. Community members who may have witnessed the stabbing, or have information about Decles' movements following the crime are urged to come forward and provide their accounts.
