ATWATER, Calif. (KMJ/KFSN) — Four people have been hospitalized following a stabbing in Atwater on Wednesday morning.
Police say it happened at about 11:00 a.m. in the area of Atwater Boulevard and First Street.
Authorities say a man, now identified as 38-year-old Isidro Chavez Gonzales, walked up to a bus stop and stabbed three people using a sickle.
Police say Gonzales then went next door, stabbed another person outside a building and then stole a vehicle.
Teasdale Latin Foods, in a statement sent to KMJ on Thursday, said no employees were involved or injured:
We are deeply saddened by the violent events that occurred in Atwater on Wednesday morning, and our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and everyone affected. The safety and well-being of our employees and our community are our highest priorities. We want to clarify that, contrary to the initial reports, no Teasdale Latin Foods employees were injured in the incident and no vehicles were stolen from our facility. Upon witnessing the emergency unfold at the city bus stop near Atwater Boulevard and First Street, a Teasdale employee immediately called 911 to ensure authorities were alerted as quickly as possible. We are grateful for the quick and courageous response of first responders. Our thoughts remain with those who were harmed.
-Teasdale Latin Foods
Gonzales then allegedly led police on a chase, which ended on Highway 140 and Buhach when they crashed into a pole. Gonzales was taken into custody.
Authorities say the victims are three men and one woman. All were airlifted to the hospital for treatment. Their conditions are not known.
Police say Gonzales is facing four counts of attempted murder, carjacking and evading police.
Listen to the report by KMJ’s Liz Kern.
