A man described as African American and “semi-transient,” was stabbed to death in Las Palmas Park in San Fernando.
The stabbing was reported at 9:45 p.m. Tuesday at the park at 505 S. Huntington St., according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, which is assisting San Fernando police in the investigation. San Fernando Police Chief Tony Vairo said that the victim had a residence right outside of the city but he also stayed at the park.
Los Angeles Fire Department firefighters found the victim down behind the softball fields. It appeared he suffered at least one stab wound to the body, said sheriff’s Deputy Kelvin Moody. He was found in a pool of blood and appeared to have bled to death.
No information on a suspect was immediately available. San Fernando Police Chief Tony Vairo said. He described the stabbing as an “isolated incident and not gang related.”
The coroners office picked up the body about 8:00 this morning “It’s part of the investigation and part of the process and it can take some time to collect all of the evidence,” said Vairo. “We are going to have extra patrols and we will be reaching out to the seniors who use the park and reassure them that the park is a safe environment,” said Vairo. “If anyone has any concerns or questions they can also call us.”
That was little comfort to residents who were concerned that drug or gang activity could be returning to the park. “Why would someone want to do this to someone who has nothing,” asked resident David Vargas. Vargas and others said the man was a “regular” at the park “who didn’t bother anyone.” Vargas and other residents would sometimes give him food.