Suspected Gang Members Attack Teen
Small Knife Used in Assault on Victim with No Gang Affiliation
A Santa Barbara teenager walking home from a Saturday morning breakfast at McDonald’s was kicked and stabbed by three suspected Eastside gang members, police say. The 14-year-old victim suffered minor lacerations and bruises on his head and back and is expected to make a full recovery.
The attack took place at around 10 a.m. on March 3 in the area of Chapala and West Victoria streets. According to police, the victim and his friend were approached by the three suspects who began taunting them and flashing Eastside gang signs. The two teens, both Latino, tried to ignore the suspects and walk away, but one of them was knocked down.
As the three subjects descended on him, a nearby witness called out that she was contacting police. The suspects fled shortly thereafter. The victim said he was unaware a knife was used in the attack, but the witness said she saw one of the suspects holding a small blade. Police said they had no prior contact with the two teens and don’t believe they are members of a gang.
The three suspects are believed to be around 16 years old. One was described as having a large build and shaved head, wearing black pants and a black t-shirt. Another had a thin build and was wearing a gray t-shirt. The third was also wearing a gray t-shirt and had a shaved head.
Anyone with information on the attack is encourage to call Detective Michael Brown at (805) 897-2339.
