A fatal stabbing in Long Beach has led to a 21-year-old suspect turning himself in to authorities. According to a report by KTLA, Jonathan Sandoval confessed to police that he attacked two individuals inside a home located on the 800 block of Cherry Avenue. The incident resulted in the death of 41-year-old Cristian Varguez due to stab wounds.
Responding to the scene before 4 p.m., Long Beach Police officers found Varguez with critical injuries, who was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. In a surprising twist to the case, Sandoval walked into the Long Beach Police Department Public Safety Building while officers were conducting their investigation, and voluntarily surrendered himself for the crime. The Long Beach Police Department confirmed that the second victim, though injured, sustained wounds that were not life-threatening.
Sandoval is now facing charges of murder and assault with a deadly weapon. Police have established that the deadly encounter escalated from a physical altercation, where Sandoval allegedly retrieved a knife and a pair of brass knuckles. Sandoval's bail has been set at $2 million, and his court date is pending as the investigation continues. He was familiar with both victims, according to law enforcement, indicating that the attack was not a random act of violence.
The case is preparing to be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office for review and determination of formal charges against Sandoval. Detectives Eric Thai and Kelsey Myers, who are leading the homicide investigation for the LBPD, are urging anyone with information to come forward. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through various channels including "LA Crime Stoppers" or by contacting the detectives directly at 562-570-7244.
