Stabbing along border leaves man in critical condition

Search is on for person of interest whom allegedly fled the scene

CALEXICO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - Calexico police are looking for a suspect whom they believe stabbed a man leaving him severely injured. 32-year-old Calexico resident, Francisco Velazquez is the suspect of this crime. The incident took place on the morning of April 6th.

The victim who suffered multiple stab wounds tells the Calexico Police Department (CPD), that he and Velazquez were long-time friends. Officers revealed to News 11's Wiley Jawhary, that drugs and alcohol played a role.

Patrol Sergeant Armando Orozco has been with the department for 19 years. He tells us by the time they arrived on scene, Velazquez had already left.

"City units responded to a call of a person being stabbed. They responded to the area and located a subject with stab wounds in his leg," Orozco said.

Authorities came close to capturing the suspect, even the Imperial County Drone Team assisted in the search, but Velazquez was able to get away. Officers believe that Velazquez may have left the state, or is being hidden by his mother.

The CPD explain they’ve been seeing an uptick in crime over the last few weeks. Their advice to the public is to stay aware of their surroundings. Additionally, if anyone sees Francisco Velazquez, they’re to call their local police immediately.