Man charged in random stabbing of victim on way to UW football game

SEATTLE — A 25-year-old man was charged with assault after randomly stabbing a man on the light rail who was on his way to a UW football game, prosecutors say.

Jesus Sanchez was charged with second-degree assault and possession of methamphetamine.

The victim was heading with a family friend and his two young children on the light rail to the Husky football game on Sept. 14.

Sanchez was sitting behind the victim on the train. When the train approached Pioneer Square station, Sanchez stood up and stabbed the victim in the back, according to court documents. Sanchez and the victim did not know each other.

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Prosecutors wrote that the stabbing was witnessed by a nearby security officer, who followed Sanchez off the train. Sanchez was arrested by Seattle police shortly after near 3rd Avenue and Madison Street.

When arrested, documents state that Sanchez had a folding knife and over 16 grams of meth in his possession.

The victim continued riding on the train to the University of Washington stop, where he received initial treatment at a medical van. Documents state that his wound was too severe and the man was taken to UW Medical Center. Doctors determined that the man suffered a 1-inch wide and 1/2-inch deep wound. The stabbing missed vital organs, and the victim was treated and released five hours later.

Sanchez has a prior criminal history, both as a juvenile and adult. His history includes possession of a stolen vehicle, malicious mischief, assault in the fourth degree, violation of a no contact order and theft.

The court set bail at $100,000 based on Sanchez's criminal and warrant history, as well as his alleged violent behavior in this case. Documents state that prosecutors believe he poses a substantial danger to the community and a strong flight risk if released.

Cox Media Group