LAPD Arrests Suspect in Brutal Venice Samurai Sword Attack
A violent altercation in Venice has ended with a man in custody after he allegedly used a samurai sword to nearly sever another man’s arm. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) arrested Justin Tucker on Saturday afternoon, charging him with attempted murder following a bloody encounter that left a 27-year-old victim fighting for his life.
- Suspect: Justin Tucker, a man in his late 20s.
- Charge: Attempted murder.
- Weapon: A 16-inch-long samurai sword.
- Outcome: Victim’s arm was nearly severed; LAPD officers used a tourniquet to prevent him from bleeding out.
The Attack: A Dispute Over Property
The incident unfolded on a Thursday outside of Venice Community Housing, where Tucker resided. According to Capt. Brian Churchill of the LAPD’s Pacific Division, the violence stemmed from an argument between the two men over property they both claimed.
Witnesses reported seeing the pair arguing on the sidewalk before Tucker entered the apartment building and returned wielding a 16-inch-long samurai sword. Tucker then hacked at the victim’s arm before fleeing the scene. The victim, a 27-year-old who did not live in the building, was left spewing blood on the sidewalk and the building’s concrete barrier.
The severity of the injury required immediate, life-saving intervention. LAPD officers who arrived on the scene applied a tourniquet to the victim’s arm. “If it weren’t for their quick action, he would have bled out,” Capt. Churchill stated.
Manhunt and Arrest
Following the attack, Tucker remained at large for two days. During this window, Venice Community Housing issued a flier to its residents warning them that Tucker lived nearby and should be considered “armed and dangerous.”
The search ended Saturday afternoon when the LAPD took Tucker into custody near Venice Beach. Following the arrest, police obtained a warrant and recovered the samurai sword from inside the apartment building.
“I’m happy he’s in custody and doesn’t pose a threat to the people of Venice Beach anymore,” said Capt. Churchill.
Community Response and Safety Concerns
The attack has left residents and staff at Venice Community Housing deeply unsettled. Erika Lee, the nonprofit’s co-director, described the event as a “serious, violent incident” that took place in front of the building with witnesses present.
Lee noted that while she did not witness the attack personally, reports suggest the two men may have known each other. In response to the violence, staff met with residents on Saturday to address safety concerns.
“We’re very concerned,” Lee said. “We take safety very seriously. We’re meeting with residents and want to make sure everyone in the building feels safe and secure.”
Lee emphasized that the incident is particularly unfortunate given the mission of Venice Community Housing. Beyond providing low-income housing, the organization offers supportive services, including cooking classes, life skills workshops and job training for those in need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the suspect in the Venice sword attack?
The suspect is Justin Tucker, a man in his late 20s who lived at Venice Community Housing.
What charges is Justin Tucker facing?
Tucker was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
How did the victim survive the attack?
The victim’s arm was nearly severed, but LAPD officers applied a tourniquet immediately upon arrival, which Capt. Brian Churchill credited with saving the man’s life.
This is a developing story. As legal proceedings against Justin Tucker move forward, further details regarding the motive and the victim’s recovery may emerge.