Search On For Killer In Unprovoked Metro Stabbing

LOS ANGELES, CA — The unprovoked slaying of a 23-year-old man stabbed to death aboard a Metro B (Red) Line train in downtown Los Angeles Thursday rattled the city and prompted a widespread effort to catch the killer.

Police on Friday released security images of the murder suspect.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the stabbing occurred around 5:20 p.m. Thursday aboard the subway train.

"Preliminary investigation revealed the victim was on the train when he was approached by the suspect who was armed with a knife," police said in a written statement. "Without warning or provocation, the suspect stabbed the victim in the upper torso and fled the train on foot."

SEE ALSO:

• Metro Boosts Red Line Security As Ridership Increases
• Hunt Continues For Man Who Stabbed Bus Driver
• Bass Takes Metro Gavel, Will Focus on Safety, Homelessness, Ridership

The victim was stabbed in the chest and was pronounced dead a short time later at a nearby hospital.

"Transit Services Division officers were standing on the platform of the Pershing Square Station when they were alerted of a stabbing that occurred on the train," according to police.

The suspect, however, escaped. He was described as a 6-foot-2 man weighing 180 pounds with black hair, a mustache and a goatee. He was last seen wearing a black wave cap, a black long- sleeve shirt, dark-colored pants, black shoes, and carrying a black Puma backpack, according to the LAPD.

Anyone who sees him should call 911. Anyone with information regarding the attack is urged to contact LAPD Central Bureau Homicide Detectives Sharman or Gonzales at 213-996- 4142. Anonymous tips can be called into Crime Stoppers at 800- 222-8477.