The suspect in Sundays stabbing in Downtown Santa Monica has been identified as a homeless man and his victims were a pair of international tourists according to the Santa Monica Police Department.
On Sunday, May 19, at approximately 8 p.m., the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) responded to the 1500 block of 4th Street, near Parking Structure #7, for a reported stabbing.
Officers determined the suspect, 29-year-old Larry Ameyal Cedeno — who is currently experiencing homelessness — assaulted three individuals in an unprovoked incident.
Two victims suffered stab wounds and while one remains in critical but stable condition, the third victim was assaulted with no major injuries. The two individuals who were stabbed have been identified as German tourists who are not related to each other.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers immediately began CPR on the first victim while additional officers located the suspect. The suspect was detained and arrested a short time later. The suspect remains in custody at the Santa Monica Jail pending arraignment and the official filing of charges.
According to the SMPD, the Santa Monica Criminal Investigations Division presented the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney and filed charges of one count of attempted murder and one count of assault with a deadly weapon.
"The safety and security of our community is our top priority. As is standard practice for the busy summer months, the Santa Monica Police Department will be increasing foot patrols in the downtown, beach, and surrounding areas," said the SMPD in a statement.
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón has announced his office is recommending bail of $2,155,000.
“I want to express our deepest sympathies to the victims of this violent crime,” District Attorney Gascón said. “This violent behavior not only affects the immediate victims, but also affects the sense of safety and security within our community, especially among those visiting from other areas. Our office is committed to seeking justice for the victims and ensuring the offender is held accountable.”
This remains an ongoing investigation and anyone with information related to this incident or these individuals is encouraged to contact Detective Burciaga or the Watch Commander (24 hours) at 310-458-8427.
scott.snowden@smpd.com