Santa Ana (July 15, 2025) – Police Detectives are conducting a homicide investigation regarding a 44-year-old man who died as a result of a stabbing, according to the SAPD.
On Monday, July 14, 2025, at approximately 11:09 p.m., Santa Ana Police officers responded to a 911 call of a stabbing that had just occurred in the area of 2400 S. Evergreen Street.
Upon arrival, officers discovered an unresponsive adult male, later identified as Ricardo Villegas Narvaez (44), in the street suffering from multiple stab wounds to his body.
Paramedics from the Orange County Fire Authority responded and transported the male to a local hospital where he was subsequently pronounced deceased.
A homicide investigation has subsequently been initiated. Homicide Detectives are attempting to identify and locate additional witnesses who can provide information about the homicide.
Anyone with information is asked to call SAPD Homicide Section Detectives at (714) 245-8390 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.
Here’s a plain text summary of the penalties a suspect could face in the Santa Ana stabbing case:
If charged with First-Degree Murder (planned or during a serious crime):
- 25 years to life in prison
- Possibly life without parole or the death penalty if special circumstances apply (like gang involvement or multiple victims)
If charged with Second-Degree Murder (intentional but not planned):
- 15 years to life in prison
- Could be more if the victim was a police officer or if other enhancements apply
If charged with Voluntary Manslaughter (heat of passion or sudden fight):
- Up to 11 years in prison
Enhancements (can add more time):
- Use of a weapon (like a knife)
- Gang involvement
- Prior serious or violent felony convictions