VIDEO: Argument Over Recyclable Cardboard Leads to Stabbing in Cerritos

Editor’s Note: Update from 8/18/11 -- Sheriff’s detectives have updated the suspect’s description since the stabbing. Initially the man was described as having blonde hair, the suspect photo shows he actually has dark hair.  for the updated story and suspect photo.

An argument between two transients in the garage of a Cerritos home near  today left one man hospitalized with a stab wound to his lower back, as detectives continue to search for his attacker. 

The violence occurred at a large two-story home at the corner of Vickie Avenue and Brookhaven Street just before 6:30 p.m., Lt. G. Deedrick of the told Patch at the scene.

The two men were helping recycle cardboard in the home’s garage when they began arguing, prompting one of the men to stab the other in the lower part of his back. Deedrick said the two were "either friends or friendly to each other" prior to the fight. 

The wounded victim was taken to a hospital where he is currently listed in stable condition, the lieutenant said.

A bloody trail could be seen near the front door to the sidewalk and stained clothing was found on the street near the curb in front of the home, which was cordoned off with yellow crime scene tape following the incident, drawing several neighbors to stop and take a look.   

"What is going on?" several nearby residents asked as they walked by. Some neighbors in the area told Patch that the same home had burned down about two years ago and had since been rebuilt. It is currently one of the few two-story homes on that street. 

Suspect Description

Sheriff’s detectives are continuing to search for the assailant who is described as a white male, age 30 to 35, 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighs about 190 pounds. He has blonde hair and blue or green eyes, and was last seen wearing a black shirt, black jeans and possibly has tattoos on his arms, according to the Sheriff's Department. 

Anyone with information on the suspect should call the sheriff’s Cerritos Station at (562) 860-0044.