On Sunday, May 25, 2025, at approximately 9:38 p.m., Santa Maria Police Department (SMPD) officers were dispatched to the 300 block of East McElhany Street regarding a reported fight and stabbing.
Upon arrival, officers located an adult male victim inside a nearby apartment suffering from a stab wound(s). Officers provided aid and requested emergency medical personnel. The victim was transported to Marian Regional Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased.
During the preliminary investigation, officers identified the suspect as 59-year-old Gustavo Hernandez, a resident of Santa Maria. Hernandez was located at a neighboring residence and taken into custody by patrol officers without incident…