Homicide detectives with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department are searching for a Palmdale man after a 64-year-old woman was stabbed and later died Thursday night, triggering a neighborhood-wide manhunt.
The killing was reported shortly before 8:26 p.m. in the 2600 block of West Avenue N-8. Investigators say the suspect was seen leaving the area on foot.
Suspect Described As Armed And Dangerous
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, investigators have identified the suspect as 33-year-old Brandon Tyrell Simmons.
Detectives describe Simmons as a Black male about 5 feet 9 inches tall and 180 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, gray shorts, and white crew socks with blue and red stripes. Officials say Simmons has a history of mental-health issues, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and should be considered armed and dangerous.
Victim, Family Ties, And The Investigation
Local reporting states the victim was a 64-year-old Black woman who was taken to a hospital and later died from her injuries. As of Friday, coroner's officials had not released her name.
Detectives said they were able to positively identify the suspect as a relative of the victim while pursuing leads in the case, according to the Victorville Daily Press.
How To Report Tips
The Sheriff's Homicide Bureau is asking anyone with information to call (323) 890-5500. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477 or via L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers, the department said in its Facebook post.
Palmdale's Recent Violent Incidents
The Antelope Valley has seen multiple violent incidents this year, and The Homicide Report from the Los Angeles Times lists several killings in northwest Palmdale over recent years, which officials say helps explain the strong presence of county homicide detectives in the area.
Investigators say they are continuing to canvass the neighborhood and review evidence while the search for Simmons remains active.
