A man is in serious condition after being stabbed multiple times in an apparent unprovoked attack in downtown Los Angeles, officials said. The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. near 2nd and San Pedro streets, according to KTLA.
Police responded to the scene where they discovered the victim, a homeless man believed to be in his 50s or 60s, with multiple stab wounds. First responders were able to quickly render aid before paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital where he was reported to have survived after undergoing emergency surgery. The Los Angeles Police Department is now actively trying to track down the assailant, who is described as a male, approximately 6 feet tall, and was last seen wearing a gray shirt and brown shorts. As reported by FOX LA, although their description slightly differs, witnesses described the suspect as a Hispanic man with an average build and a beard, wearing a beanie, a grey t-shirt, black shorts, and long white socks.
"It was shocking. I thought he was getting beat up on the floor until the suspect raised his hand and I saw the knife," said Brando Nocomedez, who was working security at the time of the incident. Similarly, another security guard, Eddie Gonzalez, recounted, "He falls on his knees and the other guy starts running," FOX LA stated.
Two men were briefly detained at the crime scene but were subsequently released as the search continues for the person responsible for the vicious attack. Detectives from LAPD's Central Division are leading the investigation and are urging anyone with information to come forward and help to potentially close quickly this violent chapter. Tips can be submitted by contacting the LAPD Central Division at 213-741-3770.
