Teen suspect may face homicide charges for stabbing death of a 51-year-old man after alleged fight

PORTERVILLE, Calif. (KFSN) -- Crime scene tape and a small memorial at Fallen Heroes Park in Porterville mark the place where a 51-year-old man was stabbed and later died at a local hospital.

It happened Saturday morning, and by Sunday afternoon, police arrested a 17-year-old boy for the crime.

"What happened on Saturday was not only unnecessary, but it cannot and will not be tolerated," says Porterville Police Chief Bobby Rader.

Police say they received multiple calls about two people in a fight, with one injured.

They believe an argument led to a fight between the victim and the suspect.

Then the 17-year-old allegedly pulled out a knife.

The reason for the fight is still being investigated, but officials say the teenage suspect is known to police.

"We have had multiple contacts with this young man over the last year. He has a history of resisting arrest and being non-compliant with law enforcement," explains Chief Rader.

One local resident, Liz Ruiz, says the area is typically safe and quiet.

She comes here often with her loved ones.

"I really think it's unfortunate because this park is really such a highlight in town. There are a lot of activities to do here," expresses Liz.

Chief Rader says detectives worked for 30 hours straight to make the arrest.

The teen was found at a nearby home and was taken into custody without incident.

"I am very proud of the detectives at the Porterville Police Department. These detectives worked tirelessly and nonstop throughout the night and the next day with no rest to find this suspect and take him in as safely and quickly as possible," mentions Chief Rader.

The Porterville Police Department says it's suggesting homicide charges to the District Attorney's office.

The investigation could take several days to complete.

This marks the city's first homicide of the year.

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