SANTA ANA, Calif. — A 14-year-old student, identified by friends as Armando, was killed and two other teenage boys were injured in a stabbing that occurred outside Santa Ana High School on Wednesday afternoon, according to the Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD).
The violent incident unfolded at approximately 3:25 p.m., shortly after the school day had ended.
Police say the three victims—ages 14, 15, and 16—were attacked in front of the campus, prompting an emergency response.
All three were transported to a local hospital, where the 14-year-old succumbed to his injuries.
The other two victims remain hospitalized and are reported to be in stable condition.
Authorities have launched a search for two suspects believed to be involved in the attack.
While initial reports indicate that all parties—victims and suspects—are students at Santa Ana High School, that detail has not been definitively confirmed.
Investigators are exploring the possibility that the attack was gang-related, although the precise motive remains under investigation.
Officers are currently reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Aaron Chavez, a friend of the deceased, described Armando as a kind-hearted and humorous teenager, expressing deep sorrow over the loss. “He didn’t deserve this. He was a good kid,” Chavez said.
In response to the incident, the Santa Ana Unified School District issued a statement to families assuring them that there is no active threat to the school or the surrounding community. “The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority,” the statement read.
All after-school activities were canceled for the day, and crisis counselors will be available on campus starting Thursday to provide emotional support and resources for students and staff affected by the tragedy.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Santa Ana Police Department.