Public Safety Advisory- Homicides
The Oceanside Police Department is providing a public safety advisory on recent attacks targeting unhoused individuals in the City of Oceanside. On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at 4:17 a.m., Oceanside police officers responded to a stabbing that occurred near Coast Highway and the San Luis Rey Riverbed. The victim survived the attack and suffered several stab wounds. The individual was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. On Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 4:44 p.m., the Oceanside Police Department received a call of a deceased person near the railroad tracks along Oceanside Boulevard and Coast Highway. Upon arrival, officers located a deceased male, who sustained blunt force trauma. On Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 11:29 a.m., an Oceanside police officer was flagged down, reference a deceased person in the area of the San Luis Rey Riverbed west of the I-5 Freeway, near the San Luis Rey bicycle path. Officers conducted a search of the area and located a deceased male in the brush. Upon further examination, it was discovered the deceased male had sustained blunt force trauma. At this time, there is no suspect information, and it is unknown if these incidents are related. Detectives from the Oceanside Police Department, Crimes of Violence Unit responded to the scene to take the lead on this investigation. The names of the victims involved in this investigation will not be released at this time.
In response to these recent attacks, the Oceanside Police Department has increased their patrol throughout the city where unhoused individuals frequent. Officers from the Homeless Outreach Team will also be contacting individuals on foot in these areas to advise them of the recent attacks and provide resources. The Oceanside Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance. We are asking anyone who might have seen something or someone suspicious during the indicated attacks, to contact our Investigations Division. If there is anyone who has additional information pertaining to these investigations, please contact Detective Sergeant David Estrada at (760) 435-4698 or email DEstrada@oceansideca.org.
Safety First: A Message to Our Community
We urge individuals experiencing homelessness to stay vigilant and prioritize their safety. Here are some essential reminders:
Stay Together: Always travel in pairs or groups. There's safety in numbers and looking out for one another can make a significant difference.
Avoid Sleeping Alone: When finding a place to rest, try to stay with others. Sleeping alone can increase vulnerability, so seek companionship whenever possible.
Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings. Trust your instincts, and if something doesn’t feel right, call the Oceanside Police Department.
Know Your Resources: Familiarize yourself with your local shelter and available resources. Do not hesitate to reach out for help and support when needed.
Know your safety is our priority.
