2023-09-15 01:41:45
LOS ANGELES – The devastated family of a man who was killed in a seemingly random stabbing last week while riding a Metro train in Los Angeles is speaking of their grief.
Jesse Rodriguez, 23, died Sept. 7 when a man approached him with a hunting knife and stabbed him in the chest while they were traveling aboard a Metro B (Red) line train, the Department of Transportation said. Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
The victim’s family, overcome with grief, hopes their loved one’s death will prompt city leaders to take more steps to increase safety on public transportation.
According to Rodriguez’s family, police told them the attacker was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time of the attack.
“He thought my brother was some kind of person following him,” said Victoria Hernandez, the victim’s older sister. “She ended up stabbing him in the heart and killing him.”
When the train arrived at Pershing Square in downtown Los Angeles, transit officers saw Rodriguez bleeding profusely and holding his chest. He was rushed to an area hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
“Knowing that he wasn’t messing with anyone while he was traveling on the train, I don’t know if it makes things worse or better,” Hernandez said.
The suspect, who was arrested Saturday and now faces a murder charge, was identified as 31-year-old Randy Nash.
“Why did you take my baby? I didn’t even know you,” said Katherine Rodriguez, Jesse’s mother.
According to the victim’s loved ones, Jesse was just two weeks away from his birthday. He is remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor. He was the youngest of five brothers.
“Everyone who knew him loved him for who he was,” said Hernández. “He was funny and smart. He did not deserve to die, much less how he died.”
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón issued a statement regarding the deadly attack.
“I offer my deepest condolences to Mr. Rodríguez’s loved ones,” Gascón said in his statement.
“This is a heartbreaking loss that affects us all, as many Angelenos use public transportation daily and should not have to live in fear of being randomly attacked while commuting. “My office will do everything possible to ensure that justice is served for Mr. Rodríguez and his family,” he added.
Nash pleaded not guilty to murder on Tuesday. He is scheduled to return to court on Oct. 13 for a preliminary hearing. It is unclear if an attorney is available to speak on his behalf.
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