An Argument Leads to a Stabbing Death NR10524cj

November 7, 2010

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Mission Homicide detectives are asking for the public’s help with providing information about a Sylmar man who was stabbed to death during a dispute.      

On Sunday, November 7, 2010 at approximately 2:18 a.m. LAPD Mission Area Patrol officers responded to a radio call of a victim of a stabbing in the 13200 block of Bombay Street in Sylmar.  Upon arrival, officers observed the body of a 19-year-old man lying in the street.  The victim had suffered multiple stab wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene by Los Angele City Fire Department rescue personnel.   The victim was identified as Zachary Andrew Leon.  

Detectives’ investigation revealed that Leon was involved in an argument with 21-year-old Sylmar resident Esteban Tabarez, a friend he recently became acquainted with.  The argument ended with Tabarez stabbing the victim to death.

Further investigation led to the arrest of Tabarez at the scene of the crime.  He was booked at Van Nuys Jail for Murder under Penal Code section 187 and his bail is set at one million dollars.  The case will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office on November 9, 2010.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact Mission Homicide Detectives Acero or Gonzales at 818-838-9980.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.