Stabbing reported at LA Metro station in North Hollywood

A 45-year-old Metro passenger was stabbed at the LA Metro station in North Hollywood Wednesday by another passenger he got into an altercation with Wednesday, according to the transit agency. 

The victim suffered lacerations to his rib area after being stabbed on the stairwell leading into the station, Los Angeles Police Department Officer Jader Chaves said. An ambulance was requested for the victim while police searched for the assailant.

The Metro Red Line station is located near the intersection of Chandler Boulevard and Lankershim Boulevard. Aerial footage shot just before 2:30 p.m. shows two fire engines just outside the station and several police patrol vehicles.

Chaves said the suspect fled the scene on a bike and described him as standing 6 feet tall and weighing about 180 pounds. He is believed to be around 30 years old, has short black hair and was wearing a black helmet, black shirt and shorts with white socks as he rode away from the scene.

Metro released a statement following Wednesday's incident.

"Metro appreciates the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers, already assigned to the North Hollywood Metro Station, responding immediately and assisting the victim after an altercation between two passengers resulted in a person being stabbed as they exited the station," the statement reads. "Metro wishes the victim a full and swift recovery."