Valley Man Killed Trying To Save Son From Unprovoked Attack

VAN NUYS, CA — A father died trying to save his son from an unprovoked stabbing in Van Nuys, and the suspected killer was arrested Thursday, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

A 24-year-old man, attempted to force his way into a neighbor’s apartment in the 15000 block of Vanowen Street at 10:50 p.m. Wednesday and began stabbing a 31-year-old man, who attempted to fight him off, police said.

"Officers ... discovered that the suspect, without provocation, approached his neighbors' apartment and attempted to force entry," an LAPD statement alleges. "The suspect, armed with a large knife, attempted to force his way into the victims' apartment (and) the (younger) victim sustained life- threatening sharp-force injuries during the struggle.

"While the victim and the suspect were struggling at the door, the victim's father attempted to come to his aid," police said. "The suspect attacked him, as well, stabbing and cutting him numerous times."

Jesus Delatorre, 51, died at a hospital, and his son, whose name was not released, was hospitalized in critical but stable condition, police said.

Martin Quinonez, 24, of Van Nuys was arrested Thursday and booked on suspicion of murder. He is being held on $2 million bail, police said.

A motive for the attack was not disclosed.

City News Service and Patch Staffer Paige Austin contributed to this report.