A 31-year-old man has been arrested in the fatal stabbing of a teenage girl in Southern California, an incident police believe is related to gang activity. According to KTLA, Costa Mesa Police Department (CMPD) identified and arrested Matthew Juarez, an Orange County-based gang member, following the attack on the 15-year-old girl, which happened in broad daylight on Saturday at around 12:30 p.m.
The violent event unfolded on the 700 block of Shalimar Drive in Costa Mesa, a residential area known for its vibrant community, now marred by tragedy. Found with a "life-threatening" stab wound, the girl was attended to by first responders who performed CPR before transporting her to a hospital where, a few hours later, she succumbed to her injuries. As reported by CBS News Los Angeles, despite their efforts, the officers and paramedics could not save the girl's life.
Throughout their swift inquiry into the stabbing, CMPD detectives discovered that the attack was indeed gang-related. Nixle conveyed details of Juarez's arrest, which occurred on the same day of the crime. The collaboration with the Anaheim Police Department led to utmost capture without incident at his residence in Anaheim.
As for the connection between the suspect and the young victim, it remains unclear, a fact highlighted by authorities and reflected in media reports. The CMPD has not disclosed whether Juarez had any relationship with the victim or with anyone she may have known, echoing the sentiments of their investigation, which is still active. According to the information provided by KTLA, anyone with knowledge of the incident is encouraged to reach out to CMPD Detective Peralta or Investigator Molina.
CMPD has asked that any witnesses or individuals with information regarding the stabbing contact their department immediately.
