Man held for attempted murder

A 19-year-old Porterville man is being held on suspicion of attempted murder and two 16-year-olds were injured during an altercation early Monday.

Arrested was Francisco Ledesma, 19, and the injured teens were both 16 years old.

Porterville Police said the incident began about 7:45 Monday morning in the 800 block of East Cleveland Avenue when officers were called regarding a possible stabbing.

Upon arrival, officers located a crime scene which included a knife, a cell phone, a broken bowl and blood. However, no victim was found. Witnesses said an assault had occurred and all parties involved fled the scene.

Officers were then dispatched to a residence in the 900 block of East Cleveland Avenue for a medical aid. Officers contacted Ledesma who had injuries to his head and face. He was transported to Sierra View District Hospital for treatment.

Officers then went to the hospital after being told there were two stab victims being treated there.

At the hospital, officers contacted the two 16-year-old male juveniles. Both had knife wound lacerations to their arms. They were released after treatment.

Through further investigation, it was determined that Ledesma confronted the two juveniles in front of their residence and exited a vehicle holding a knife in his hand. Police said he then demanded the juveniles’ cell phones; however, the juveniles refused and Ledesma began to attack them with the knife. Both victims were cut with the knife during the assault until neighbors ran to the juveniles’ aid and began to disarm the assailant.

Ledesma was able to flee the scene and ran to his residence. The victims also left after the incident and went to Sierra View District Hospital for treatment.

Ledesma was treated for his injuries and booked into the Tulare County Main Jail on suspicion of attempted murder.