Hayward Domestic Violence Suspect Who Slashed Own Neck Mistakenly Released
HAYWARD (CBS SF) - Hayward police were searching for a domestic violence suspect who was inadvertently released to the public Sunday night rather than into police custody after a psychiatric evaluation.
Police believe the suspect, Jose Salias Hernandez, 32, may be a danger to the victim and himself and are asking for the public's help to locate him.
Hernandez, who was wanted in connection with a prior domestic violence incident, went to his ex-girlfriend's home Saturday night and broke a window when he was denied access, according to Hayward police.
Officers confronted the suspect in the driveway of the home, located in the 200 block of Valle Vista Avenue, at around 8:10 p.m.
Police said Hernandez brandished a large kitchen knife and threatened to kill himself.
After several minutes of negotiating with officers, Hernandez cut his throat and started to stab himself in the chest, according to police.
Police detained Hernandez and he was taken to a hospital with injuries that were not considered life threatening.
Hernandez was then taken to John George Psychiatric Pavilion in San Leandro for a psychiatric evaluation and was supposed to be released into police custody but was inadvertently released into the public Sunday night, according to police.
Police said Hernandez took a cab to Whipple Road and Medallion Drive at the Hayward-Union City border.
Officers attempted to locate Hernandez at past residences in Union City and Hayward but were unsuccessful.
Hernandez was described as a Hispanic man, about 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing about 150 pounds. He has short black hair, brown eyes and has extensive bandages and suturing around his neck.
Anyone with information about Hernandez is asked to call 911 or Hayward police at (510) 293-7000.
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