New surveillance video released of person of interest in fatal stabbing at downtown LA restaurant
LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Police Department sought the public's help in finding the killer who stabbed a man to death while dining at a Mexican restaurant in downtown Los Angeles in front of stunned patrons and employees in broad daylight.
The deadly stabbing happened at Margarita's Place, an eatery located near the intersection of Seventh and Main streets at 8:35 a.m. on New Year's Day.
The two men, who authorities believe did not know each other, were eating at the counter when an argument erupted between them, police said. One man used a knife he apparently carried with him to stab the victim and then fled on foot. The victim was taken to a hospital where he later died.
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Authorities identified the victim as 56-year-old Homer Garcia, of Los Angeles.
Patrons and restaurant employees who witnessed the attack were horrified.
“It was very shocking to be honest, very shocking to where I was more nervous for them and nervous for myself and nervous for the person," said customer Mimi Smith.
Surveillance footage from a nearby business captured the possible suspect walking away a short time after the stabbing.
LAPD released the footage in hopes someone will be able to identify him.
Restaurant employees say they recognized the suspect as a transient and a regular customer who is from the area.
Investigators are also reviewing surveillance video taken inside the restaurant at the time of the stabbing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the LAPD.
FOX 11’s Bill Melugin and CNS contributed to this report.