DOWNEY, Calif. – A shocking act of violence unfolded outside the Downey Library on Saturday morning, leaving a 68-year-old man dead and the community deeply shaken. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the victim as Reinaldo Lefonts of Downey, who died from multiple sharp force injuries. His death has been officially ruled a homicide.
The fatal stabbing occurred around 9:35 a.m. in front of the library located at 11121 Brookshire Avenue, according to Downey Police Department Lieutenant Dustin Doyle. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, but Lefonts was pronounced dead due to the severity of his injuries. The attack in such a public and well-frequented area has raised concerns among residents about community safety.
Police confirmed the arrest of a 23-year-old man, described as a transient, in connection with the stabbing. The suspect was apprehended near Downey High School shortly after the attack. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the suspect’s motive or any potential connection to Lefonts. Detectives are continuing to investigate what led to the deadly confrontation.
In an unexpected twist, while emergency crews tended to Lefonts, a second, unrelated crime occurred at the scene. Officials said a 52-year-old man from Los Angeles stole a Downey Fire Department ambulance that had been parked outside the library. He drove the vehicle into Alhambra, where he crashed into a parked car. Police quickly pursued and arrested the suspect, who is now facing charges connected to the theft and crash.
The Downey Police Department emphasized that both incidents are being investigated separately. Detective J. Estrada has been assigned to lead the homicide investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information about Lefonts’ death to come forward by calling 562-904-2332, emailing jestrada@downeyca.org
, or submitting tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. Officials say witness accounts may be vital in uncovering the full circumstances of the fatal stabbing.
The double shock of a deadly stabbing and a stolen ambulance has left the community on edge. Residents expressed grief and concern that such violence occurred in a normally quiet and family-friendly location. As investigators continue their work, Downey police are reassuring the public of their commitment to ensuring justice for Lefonts and accountability for those responsible.