Man arrested for attempted murder during fight with brother

Westmorland resident 33-year-old Raul Benavidez is behind bars for allegedly attacking his own brother during an argument on Wednesday night on the 100 th block East 5 th Street in Westmorland.

Police Chief Perry Monita said, “It seems like the suspect has possibly been involved in doing a lot of drugs in the last few weeks and he had just been threatening his brother over the last week or so.”

Monita said Benavidez tried to lure his brother out of the house to an area where he allegedly had objects to be used as weapons.

“It appeared that the suspect had actually stashed several weapons that he was trying to lure his brother out to. They included a large metal pipe, a kitchen knife and a hammer,” Monita said.

A fight broke out and when police arrived, the injured victim had the upper hand.

“Found the suspect, Raul Benavidez, 33 years of age, being held down by his brother, who was the victim at the time,” Monita said.

Benavidez is charged with assault with a deadly weapon, attempted murder and probation violation.

“There’s a parole hold placed on him at the time, so he’s in violation of his parole,” Monita said.

The victim’s injuries were not life-threatening.

Bail for Benavidez is set at one million dollars. Police said charges against him might change after the investigation is completed.

Benavidez’ bail is set at $1 million.