Costa Mesa, CA – A 31-year-old gang member from Orange County has been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 15-year-old girl in a residential area of Costa Mesa, according to police.
The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. Saturday in the 700 block of Shalimar Drive, a neighborhood located off Pomona Avenue in the city’s downtown district.
Emergency Response and Victim’s Death
When first responders arrived, they found the victim lying on the ground with a life-threatening stab wound. Officers and paramedics immediately began life-saving measures, including CPR, before transporting her to a nearby hospital.
The Costa Mesa Police Department (CMPD) reported that the girl succumbed to her injuries a few hours later. Her identity is being withheld due to her age and the sensitive nature of the investigation as per KTLA.
Suspect Arrested the Same Day
Detectives quickly launched an investigation and determined the attack was gang-related. The suspect, identified as Matthew Juarez, was located later that day at his Anaheim residence and taken into custody without incident.
Authorities have not confirmed whether there was any prior connection between Juarez and the victim or her acquaintances.
Ongoing Investigation
The CMPD says the investigation remains active as detectives work to determine the motive, any possible accomplices, and the events leading up to the stabbing. Police are urging anyone with information to contact Detective Peralta at 714-754-5039 or Investigator Molina at 714-754-5694.
Youth Violence and Gang Crime Concerns
Community leaders and law enforcement officials have long warned about the risks of gang-related violence, especially when it involves minors. In many cases, young people can become targets or unintended victims of gang disputes, putting neighborhoods at heightened risk.
Experts say prevention requires a multi-faceted approach, including community outreach programs, school-based intervention, mentorship opportunities, and law enforcement partnerships aimed at disrupting gang recruitment and activity.
Community Impact
The killing has shaken residents in the Shalimar Drive area, where neighbors are mourning the loss of a young life and calling for stronger efforts to address violent crime. Vigils and memorials are being discussed by community members as they process the tragedy.
What steps do you believe communities should take to address youth violence and gang-related crime in Southern California? Share your views with us in the comments section.
