Four men have been apprehended in connection with a stabbing incident that occurred on the night of September 7, 2024, in Moorpark, authorities reported. The violent altercation took place near the intersection of Park Crest Lane and S Moorpark Avenue, and one of the two victims sustained stab wounds during the assault. In a press release from the Ventura County Sheriff's Office, the suspects were identified as Moorpark residents Sergio Lazaro, 28, Bernardo Nunez, 27, Michael Gutierrez, 48, and Cesar Lazaro, 26.
Following an intensive week-long investigation, detectives from various specialized units banded together to fully execute search warrants and secure the arrests on September 17, 2024. The Sheriff's Office stated evidence linking the suspects to the crime was recovered during the operation. Among the items found, a firearm was seized from Cesar Lazaro leading to his arrest on additional firearms-related charges. The press release detailed that Cesar Lazaro was charged with unlawful transfer of a firearm and possession of a firearm by a felon or addict.
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office has since levied a host of felony charges against the individuals implicated in the assault. These charges include battery with serious bodily injury, assault with a deadly weapon, assault with force likely to produce serious bodily injury, and vandalism causing over $400 in property damage. According to the Sheriff's Office, all four men currently remain in custody with their court dates pending.
The Sheriff's Office extended its gratitude towards the community for its ongoing support during the investigation. "We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships," the office stated in the release. They encourage the public to further join the fight against crime by following on social media platforms and subscribing to local law enforcement and public safety alerts through Nixle. For information that may lead to further arrests or criminal complaints, Ventura County Crime Stoppers is offering up to a $1,000 reward, and tipsters may remain anonymous.
