On April 26, 2018, at approximately 6:45 p.m., Gilroy Patrol Officers were dispatched to the 300 block of IOOF Avenue for a report of a male who was bleeding.
When officers arrived on scene, they searched for anyone associated to the call but no one was located. Officers did locate an area on the street with a moderate amount of fresh blood on the ground. This area was later was identified as the crime scene.
A few minutes after the initial report, approximately 6:51 p.m., Saint Louise Regional Hospital called Gilroy Police Communications to make notification that a stabbing victim just walked into the emergency room. The victim suffered numerous stab wounds to his face, neck and torso area. The victim was stabilized by hospital staff and transported to a local trauma center. As the initial investigation continued, officers confirmed the aforementioned area on IOOF Avenue was the location of the assault.
As a result of the patrol investigation, the suspect was identified as Roberto Mendoza, 33-years-old, of San Martin. Mr. Mendoza was identified as the suspect by witness statements and video surveillance. Gilroy Police Detectives were able to obtain an arrest warrant for Mr. Mendoza for Attempted Homicide and Assault with a Deadly Weapon. The stabbing instrument used has not been recovered and Mr. Mendoza should be considered armed and dangerous.
This incident took place in front of South Valley Middle School, but it was not during school hours nor did the attack have anything to do with the school or any school activity.
If you have any information about this incident or the whereabouts of Mr. Mendoza, please contact the Gilroy Police Department at 408-846-0350 or dial 911. Information may be left anonymously.
