Random Hammer Attack Leaves San Mateo Man Hospitalized: Police

SAN MATEO, CA — A San Jose man is accused of attempted murder after police said he attacked a stranger with a hammer on the street, causing severe head trauma. Officials on Wednesday identified the suspect as Joaquin Morales, 41.

In a news release, the San Mateo Police Department said a 911 caller reported the attack on North San Mateo Drive around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. Officers rushed to the scene and found a 34-year-old man on the sidewalk with serious injuries.

Over the course of the investigation, officers learned a contractor hired the alleged attacker to do work on a nearby home. The victim was walking with his mother in the area when a man ran towards him and hit him in the back of the head with the hammer, then stuck him two more times on the ground.

Officers said it did not appear the victim knew his attacker, and the assault was random and unprovoked.

After the attack, police allege Morales stole his employer's vehicle and left the scene. Officers found him near 4th Avenue and South Fremont Street and arrested Morales after a short foot chase.

While detaining him, officers noted indications that Morales was under the influence of an unknown substance. Police said two witnesses positively identified Morales as the suspect before he was taken to the hospital for evaluation.

After he was discharged, police booked Morales into jail on suspicion of attempted murder, unlawful taking or driving of a vehicle and resisting arrest, along with two outstanding warrants from Santa Clara County.