LOS ANGELES, CA – An 18-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 17-year-old girl in Azusa, authorities said Saturday.
Officers with the Azusa Police Department responded to a call regarding an assault with a deadly weapon at approximately 10 p.m. Friday in the 300 block of North Soldano Avenue, near Third Street and west of the Azusa High School West Campus, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, which is leading the investigation.
Police arrived to find the teenage girl suffering from multiple stab wounds. Paramedics transported her to a nearby hospital, where she was later pronounced dead, officials said.
Family members identified the victim as Angelina Camillia Gonzales through an online GoFundMe campaign established to assist with funeral expenses.
The suspect, who authorities confirmed was acquainted with the victim, was taken into custody shortly after the incident. Both the suspect and the victim were residents of Azusa, officials said.
Investigators have not disclosed a motive for the attack, and it remains unclear what led to the fatal encounter.
Homicide detectives are preparing to present the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration, including potential murder charges, authorities said.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Azusa community, particularly given the victim’s young age and the apparent connection between her and the suspect.
Neighbors and classmates have expressed grief over the loss, with some leaving flowers and candles near the scene. Others took to social media to share condolences and memories of Gonzales.
Authorities have urged anyone with information about the case to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.
The investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue to interview witnesses and review evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the stabbing. Further updates are expected as the case develops.
