A man accused of stabbing his 7-year-old brother in their home near Whittier was charged with attempted murder on Tuesday, May 14.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office also alleged that 24-year-old Cristian Gutierrez inflicted great bodily injury and used a knife during the commission of the crime. He faces a possible maximum sentence of life in prison.
“My heart goes out to this innocent child and his family during this incredibly challenging time,” District Attorney George Gascón said. “The trauma and emotional impact of such an incident is immeasurable, especially when it involves a member of your own family. “
Gutierrez has a mental illness, according to sheriff’s Lt. J. Johnsen. However, he didn’t know if that was a factor in the assault.
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Authorities have not revealed a motive, if known, in the stabbing, which happened around 10 p.m. May 9 on the 9500 block of Ben Hur Avenue. The neighborhood is in the unincorporated county area.
The boy was sleeping next to his father when his brother allegedly stabbed him, sheriff’s Sgt. Michael Rinden said.
The parents tried to restrain their older son, he said, adding they also called deputies.
The suspect left but was later seen walking on Ben Hur Avenue and Lanning Drive, Rinden said. Deputies arrested him.
The boy had stab wound to his torso, right arm and back and was hospitalized, Rinden said.
It wasn’t clear if he had been released from the hospital or what his current medical condition is.
Gutierrez remained in custody in county jail.