Humboldt County deputies seek suspect in stabbing of Rio Dell senior

RIO DELL, CA. (KIEM) – From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a stabbing that took place in Rio Dell this morning.

On May 16, 2018, between 10:30 and 11 a.m., a 67-year-old male resident of Rio Dell was going for a walk on the Eagle Prairie Bridge when he observed a male suspect riding a bicycle on the bridge. The victim stopped to tell the man that all bicycle riders must walk their bike when crossing the bridge. The suspect became hostile with the victim. As the victim turned away to continue his walk, the suspect assaulted him with the bicycle and struck him in the head.

The two men got into a physical altercation, at which point, the suspect then stabbed the victim in the left abdomen with an unknown object. The victim was able to leave the scene and call for help. He was transported to a local hospital. The victim’s condition is unknown at this time but he is expected to survive the assault.

Rio Dell and Eel River Valley residents are asked to keep a look out for the male suspect, described as a Caucasian male adult in his 20’s, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, thin build, wearing a beanie. The suspect was last seen riding a dark colored, newer model mountain bike towards the town of Scotia.

Anyone who sees this suspect should not confront him, but call 9-1-1 immediately. Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.

FYI- Scotia School is not on lockdown.