Someone fatally stabbed a man in his 50’s at an Anaheim apartment complex on Monday, Sept. 15, according to the Anaheim Police Department.
Police officers responded at 5:15 p.m. to the Casa Bonita Apartment Homes located at 200 N. Gilbert St., near Lincoln Avenue, on Monday, Sep. 15. The officers found a man who had lost a significant amount of blood.
The victim was hospitalized with traumatic injuries. He later was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Police investigators believe that the victim lived at the apartment complex.
Police believe the killing was a targeted attack and that the suspect and victim knew each other.
However, the police have neither identified nor located a suspect.
The police investigators also have not disclosed a motive for the killing.
If the suspect in the Anaheim stabbing is arrested and charged, they could face the following penalties under California law:
1. First-Degree Murder
- Applies if the killing was deliberate and premeditated, or occurred during the commission of another felony.
- Penalties:
- 25 years to life in state prison
- Life without parole if aggravating factors are present (e.g., multiple victims, killing a witness or law enforcement officer)
- Death penalty, although currently under moratorium in California
2. Second-Degree Murder
- Applies if the killing was intentional but not premeditated, or showed reckless disregard for human life.
- Penalties:
- 15 years to life in state prison
- 25 years to life if the victim was a peace officer
- Sentence enhancements may apply for prior convictions or use of a weapon
3. Voluntary Manslaughter
- Applies if the killing occurred in the heat of passion or due to provocation, without premeditated intent.
- Penalties:
- Up to 11 years in state prison
4. Involuntary Manslaughter
- Applies if the killing was unintentional, resulting from criminal negligence or reckless behavior.
- Penalties:
- 2 to 4 years in state prison
Other Considerations
- If the suspect used a weapon (e.g., knife), sentencing enhancements under California’s “10-20-Life” law may apply:
- 10 years for using a weapon
- 20 years for causing injury
- 25 years to life if the weapon caused death
- If the killing was gang-related or involved special victims (e.g., witnesses, judges), additional enhancements could increase the sentence.