Fatal Stabbing in Central NR13389cj

Los Angeles: A dispute leads to an altercation and eventually a fatality in Downtown Los Angeles.  LAPD Central Homicide Detectives are investigating.

On Saturday, August 17, 2013, around 10 p.m., LAPD Central Area patrol officers responded to a radio call of an assault in the 600 block of Wilshire Boulevard.  When officers arrived they found a man on the ground suffering from a possible stab wound.  LAFD paramedics responded to the scene and pronounced the victim deceased.  Officers also arrested a man who appeared to be a responsible suspect in the incident.

LAPD detectives’ investigation revealed a man was setting-up camp in front of the 600 block of Wilshire Boulevard when some campers approached asked him to move down the street.  As the man slowly started to collect his belongings about six males surrounded the victim and told him to move faster.  As the man began walking eastbound on Wilshire Boulevard, he attempted to kick at one the campers’ dog but missed.  The camper reacted by striking the victim several times.  Two additional suspects struck the victims several times.  During the altercation the victim was stabbed with an unknown sharp item.  As the victim attempted to flee he collapsed.  

The suspect that was arrested was identified as 23-year-old Anthony Johnson.  There were two more suspects involved who are currently outstanding; they are described only as male African-Americans.  The identity of the victim will not be release until next-of-kin is notified.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact LAPD Central Homicide Detectives at (213) 972-1203.  During non-business hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).  Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) using a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters can also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "Anonymous Web Tips."