Stabbing Amid Crowd Of Tourists Caught On Camera In Hollywood

HOLLYWOOD, CA — Police hope someone will recognize a man caught on camera stabbing another man in broad daylight on a crowded stretch of Hollywood Boulevard. Los Angeles police released video and still photos from the attack Thursday with a plea for anyone with information about it to come forward.

A man in his 20s confronted the suspect, who was sitting in a wheel chair smoking marijuana, at about 10 a.m. Saturday. They argued in front of a gift shop in the 6600 block of Hollywood Boulevard, near Whitley Avenue, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

"The victim and male had a brief argument and the male in the wheelchair stood up, armed with a knife, and stabbed the victim in the arm," according to a police statement. "The victim walked away from the suspect and the suspect left the location immediately after the incident."

The wounded man, who witnesses describe as a store employee, had asked the man to cease smoking in front of the store. He was rushed to a hospital where he underwent emergency surgery for his severe injury, police said.

A 22-year-old homeless man who was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and held in lieu of $1 million bail was released Monday afternoon after investigators determined he was not responsible for the attack.

"Hollywood investigators have collected surveillance footage of the suspect and are seeking the public's help in identifying him," police said.

The man in the wheelchair is described as 30-40 years old with a medium build.

Anyone who can help identify him or has information about the case was urged to call (213) 972-2937 to speak with Officer Danielson. After-hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to (877) LAPD-24-7. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 222-TIPS.

City News Service