A violent incident in Southern California has led to the arrest of 34-year-old Derick Laija from Ontario after his involvement in an assault that left one man dead and two others injured. According to the KTLA, Laija was purportedly under the influence of psilocybin mushrooms when the attack occurred on September 17.

Laija is now facing charges of murder and attempted murder following the attack in a residential area on the 3300 block of Bluegrass Avenue. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department responded to a call shortly before 8 p.m. to find Hadgu Abraham, 61, deceased from blunt-force trauma to his head outside his home. His wife, Freweiny Abraham, and his son, Asmerom Abraham, were severely injured in the incident and required hospitalization. A bat has been discovered at the scene, linking it to the brutal assault perpetrated by Laija.

Evidence suggests that the suspect, who was staying in a nearby short-term rental, displayed erratic behavior which escalated into violence. In a statement obtained by Nixle, it was reported that Laija had entered the Abrahams' property and attempted to steal their vehicle. The confrontation that ensued led to the unprovoked attack on the family members.

The community is now grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy and law enforcement is continuing their investigation. Detective Francisco Demara with the Homicide Detail is leading the case and the Sheriff’s Department is urging anyone with information about the attack to come forward. Tips can be provided to We-Tip anonymously by calling 1-800-782-7463 or online at wetip.com.