The Cuban community in California is grieving the tragic loss of Reynaldo "Ray" Lefonts, a 68-year-old man who was fatally stabbed on Saturday outside the city library in Downey, Los Angeles County. According to ABC7, the alleged attacker, Giovanni Navarro, a 23-year-old homeless man, was apprehended shortly after the incident occurred on the Downey High School campus.
The shocking crime took place in broad daylight, around 9:30 a.m., following an argument in the parking lot of the library, near electric vehicle charging stations. Witnesses reported that Navarro pulled out a knife and repeatedly stabbed Lefonts, who succumbed to his injuries at the scene despite paramedics' efforts to save him.
"The men were arguing out here. One guy pulled out a knife—the one in the flannel—and started stabbing the other. The man fell to the ground, and once down, the assailant tried to deliver another blow to the neck, that's when the blood... you know, it happened," a witness recounted to the press.
While emergency teams were attempting to assist the victim, an unexpected incident added to the chaos: a 52-year-old man stole a Downey Fire Department ambulance and led police on a 10-mile chase that ended in Alhambra after colliding with several parked vehicles. The suspect was arrested with no additional injuries reported.
The tragedy has deeply affected the Cuban community in Los Angeles, where Lefonts is remembered as a hardworking and exemplary husband and father. His son Michael described him as "extraordinary" and said his life embodied the American dream. "My dad was extraordinary. He represents the American dream. Born in Cuba, he went to Spain and came to the United States with nothing, taking advantage of everything America had to offer," he told reporters.
The investigation is ongoing as Navarro faces a murder charge, with his court hearing postponed for three weeks. Meanwhile, friends and family have organized a candlelight vigil to honor Lefonts' memory and support his family. Claudia M. Frómeta, a Downey city councilwoman, expressed her sorrow on social media over Lefonts' death, acknowledging him as a long-time resident of the city.
"We've increased security in the area and stepped up patrols. Join the Lefonts family at the candlelight vigil they are organizing to honor the life of their beloved husband, father, and friend," she posted. The vigil is scheduled for Thursday, September 18, at the Downey Civic Center. Numerous individuals have reacted to Lefonts' passing, remembering him as a hardworking and honorable man who sought only to provide for his family's well-being.
Key Questions About the California Tragedy
Who was Reynaldo "Ray" Lefonts?
Reynaldo "Ray" Lefonts was a 68-year-old Cuban-American man known for his hardworking nature and as a dedicated husband and father. He was tragically murdered in Downey, California.
What led to Reynaldo Lefonts' murder?
Lefonts was fatally stabbed by Giovanni Navarro, a 23-year-old homeless man, following an argument in the library parking lot in Downey, California.
How has the community responded to the tragedy?
The community has organized a candlelight vigil to honor Lefonts' memory, and local officials have increased security measures in the area.
What is the current status of the suspect, Giovanni Navarro?
Giovanni Navarro has been charged with murder, and his court hearing has been postponed for three weeks as the investigation continues.