RIVERSIDE, CA – Residents of a sober living house in Riverside were jolted awake early Tuesday morning by a terrifying incident that left five people wounded. According to police, the violence erupted when one of the residents turned on his roommates, attacking them with a knife or similar weapon.
The Riverside Police Department received a frantic 911 call just before 4 a.m., reporting the stabbing at the residence. Officers arrived at the scene on a street known for its quiet demeanor, only to find chaos inside the home. Jessica Sharp, a neighbor, described hearing what she initially thought were gunshots, but later realized were the sounds of police deploying flashbangs. The suspect had barricaded himself inside for several hours before eventually surrendering to the authorities.
The suspect, whose name has not been released, was taken to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, which law enforcement officials suspect were self-inflicted. Meanwhile, one of the victims sustained critical injuries but is currently in stable condition.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, leaving the community on edge. The street, home to several sober living facilities, is usually a haven for those seeking recovery. However, the incident has sparked concern among residents about safety and the presence of such facilities in their neighborhood.
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed mixed feelings. “It’s concerning because we didn’t even know there was a sober living home here. It makes you think twice about your safety,” they said. Another neighbor, who works in mental health, sympathized with the situation. “There are not enough county facilities, and while it’s unsettling, at least they’re not on the streets,” they remarked.
The neighborhood, dotted with three similar recovery homes within a small radius, has not seen many issues in recent years. However, the incident has reignited discussions about the balance between residential homes and recovery facilities in the area.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the attack, hoping to shed light on what triggered the violent outburst. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains hopeful for a resolution and a return to peace.