East County News Service
May 7, 2026 (La Mesa) — Detectives with the La Mesa Police Department are looking for assistance in identifying a person of interest following a violent assault that left a woman in critical condition last week.
The investigation began shortly before 8 a.m. on Thursday, April 30, 2026, when officers responded to reports of an injured person in the 8200 block of Parkway Drive. Police at the scene discovered a 38-year-old woman lying unconscious and bleeding heavily from a severe head injury.
First responders rendered immediate medical aid before she was rushed to a local hospital. Officials confirmed Wednesday that the victim, who is believed to be experiencing homelessness, remains in critical condition.
While a motive remains unclear, investigators believe the attack occurred during the early morning hours of April 30 a the site near Lake Murray. At this stage, the relationship between the victim and her assailant is unknown.
Detectives have released a description and surveillance imagery of a person of interest seen in the area at the time of the attack.
The individual is described as a Hispanic male with dark hair and a beard. He was wearing a blue sweatshirt featuring “San Diego” printed on the front, blue pants and white shoes.
The police are asking anyone who was in the neighborhood or who may recognize the individual in the surveillance photos to come forward.
The authorities are working in conjunction with San Diego County Crime Stoppers to gather leads. Tipsters can provide information while remaining completely anonymous.
The La Mesa Police Department can be reached at (619) 667-1400, Crime Stoppers (Anonymous) at (888) 580-8477 or visit sdcrimestoppers.org
Information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.