By LAURA AUSTIN, News Review Staff Writer
At approximately 4:40 PM, Ridgecrest Police Department (RPD) was dispatched to Ridgecrest Regional Hospital (RRH) regarding a stabbing victim in the Emergency Room. Upon arrival, RPD officers learned the stabbing occurred at a residence in the 400 block of S. Valley Street.
Because of the man’s critical condition, hospital emergency personnel determined the man was in no condition for transport to a trauma center. The victim, a 19-year-old black male, was rushed into emergency surgery at the hospital. The surgery was successful, and as of press time, the man is expected to fully recover.
The suspect was identified as 41-year-old Marquette Spencer. The investigation indicates that an altercation happened between the victim and Spencer. During the altercation, Spencer produced a knife and stabbed the victim multiple times in the back of the head, neck, arm, and torso. He then fled the city in a vehicle.
Ridgecrest police units searched the area and surrounding areas for the suspect. Later in the evening, the suspect vehicle was located in the San Bernardino area. A pursuit ensued involving police agencies in that area. Spike strips were deployed during the pursuit, which was successful.
Suspect Spencer was taken into custody without further incident. RPD personnel responded to San Bernardino and took custody of Spencer. He was later transported to the Lerdo facility in Bakersfield for booking.
