Suspect Arrested In Santa Cruz Stabbing Investigation

SANTA CRUZ - A Watsonville man has been arrested as a suspect in a Friday night stabbing in Santa Cruz.

18-year-old Adolfo Pantoja has been arrested on charges of attempted murder and participating in a criminal street gang.

Police say Pantoja was spotted near his home on Ford Street by Watsonville Police. He was taken into custody and turned over to Santa Cruz Police.

On Friday February 26 at 11:45 p.m., Santa Cruz officers responded to the 7-11 on Ocean Street on a report of a victim with multiple stab wounds.

Also on Patch: Friday Night Stabbing Leaves One In Hospital

The victim, a 19-year-old man from Watsonville, claimed to have been stabbed in the area of Pacific Ave and Center Street.

Police say the victim waved down a Good Samaritan who began to drive the victim to the hospital.

While enroute, the victim’s injuries apparently worsened and his condition declined.

Police say the Good Samaritan driver called 911 and stopped at the nearest parking lot so that the victim could be treated by EMS staff.

The victim sustained multiple knife wounds to his face and torso, according to authorities.

He was transported to a Bay Area trauma center where he is still undergoing treatment.

-image via Santa Cruz Police Department