Search Underway for Suspect Following Stabbing of Sheriff’s Deputy in San Clemente
Authorities are actively seeking a transient man believed to be responsible for stabbing a sheriff’s deputy in San Clemente while she was engaged in routine outreach for homeless individuals. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon at approximately 2:15 p.m., specifically near the 1700 block of Avenida Estacion.
Details of the Incident
The sheriff’s deputy sustained a non-life-threatening one-inch laceration to her neck. Following the incident, she was promptly taken to a hospital and has since been released, as confirmed by department spokesperson Matthew Parrish.
Community Outreach Efforts
Parrish emphasized the importance of the outreach efforts conducted by the deputies, stating, “All of our deputies are trained in the different resources available to homeless people. When they are out there doing their patrols, we encourage them to talk to homeless people, see if they are aware of these services and if they are able to connect them to help.”
Suspect Description and Public Assistance
The suspect is described as a white male in his mid-30s, with brown hair, blue eyes, and a beard. He is estimated to be around 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs approximately 160 pounds. Authorities report that he is a known transient in the area and was last seen wearing a black jacket and dark pants before fleeing toward a storm drain near Avenida Pico and El Camino Real.
The sheriff’s department has urged the public not to approach the suspect and to immediately dial 9-1-1 if he is sighted. “Thank you to the community for your assistance and patience during this incident,” the department said in a message posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Impact on Local Schools
In response to the stabbing, two nearby schools—San Clemente High School and Las Palmas Elementary—implemented temporary shelter-in-place protocols while law enforcement agents addressed the situation. Community members were also advised to avoid the vicinity of the incident.