Suspect in stabbing of Santa Monica tourists faces charges
A 29-year-old homeless man suspected of stabbing two tourists and assaulting another near Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade earlier this week was charged with attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon Tuesday.
Larry Ameyal Cedeno was arrested on Sunday for allegedly attacking the three victims in the 1500 block of Fourth Street, near a parking structure in the popular shopping area, according to the Santa Monica Police Department. If convicted of all charges filed, Cedeno faces a maximum possible sentence of life in state prison.
Police said all the attacks were unprovoked. The victims have been described by prosecutors as tourists visiting from Germany.
"I want to express our deepest sympathies to the victims of this violent crime," Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said in a statement Tuesday announcing the charges.
"This violent behavior not only affects the immediate victims, but also affects the sense of safety and security within our community, especially among those visiting from other areas," Gascón said. "Our office is committed to seeking justice for the victims and ensuring the offender is held accountable."
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Officers administered CPR to one of the victims as detectives searched for Cedeno, who was found a short time later.
"Two victims suffered stab wounds. One remains in critical but stable condition; the third was assaulted with no major injuries," police said in a statement.
Cedeno was booked at the Santa Monica Jail, where he awaits his arraignment scheduled for Wednesday. Prosecutors have requested his bail be set at $2,155,000.
Police said Cedeno was on probation for larceny.
Anyone with information regarding the attacks is urged to contact Detective George Burciaga at at 310-458-8427.