A teenager was charged with murder after a stabbing attack outside Santa Ana High School killed a 14-year-old boy and left two others hospitalized.
The deadly incident happened on May 7 as a fight broke out among a group of teenagers in the school parking lot shortly before 3:30 p.m.
Three male students, ages 14, 15, and 16, were stabbed during the violent altercation. The teen suspects, a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old, fled the scene.
All three victims were transported to the hospital with stab wounds. The 14-year-old, identified by family as Armando Morales, died from his injuries at the hospital. The other two victims are expected to survive.
On Friday, the Orange County District Attorney’s office said Morales had been stabbed in the heart.
The fight was among students who were believed to be members of rival gangs, police told the Orange County Register, though Morales’ family said the 14-year-old was not a gang member and was instead trying to defend his friend during the confrontation.
Police set up a perimeter and began searching for the two suspects who fled the area. The next day, escorted by their parents, the teen boys, who are brothers, turned themselves in at the Santa Ana Police Department.
They were arrested for murder and attempted murder and were transported to Juvenile Hall.
On Friday, the DA’s Office announced the 15-year-old suspect was charged with murder and two counts of assault with a deadly weapon. Charges against his 17-year-old brother are still pending.
The knife that was used in the attack had not been located, police told the O.C. Register, while they noted the 17-year-old suspect did not use any weapons during the incident.
Morales was a freshman at Santa Ana High School who was described by friends and loved ones as a kind and spirited kid. Dianna Vasquez said her daughter was friends with Morales.
“When she got home with her friends and they found out, she was in tears,” Vazquez said. “She was crying. She couldn’t believe it. She said he was a really nice kid.”
A makeshift memorial honoring Morales was set up by friends and family outside the high school, where candles and mementos could be seen. He is survived by his parents and two siblings.
The Santa Ana Unified School District released a statement saying, “We are committed to providing a safe, caring, and supportive environment for all students and staff. We will continue to share updates as they become available. Thank you for your continued support and compassion.”
All after-school activities were cancelled following the deadly incident and the district confirmed there was an increased police presence on campus, along with crisis counselors for those who needed support.
The suspects’ identities were not released due to their juvenile status. Detectives said they are investigating cellphone video captured by a witness that showed portions of the fight and are seeking any additional footage that may exist.
Anyone who was a witness or has information on the case is urged to call SAPD Homicide Detectives at 714-245-8390. Anonymous tips can be provided to OC Crime Stoppers at 1-855-847-6227 or online at occrimestoppers.org.
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