Stabbing along CV Link in Palm Springs sparks renewed concerns about trail safety

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - New safety concerns after a recent stabbing along the CV Link.

Officials say they responded to the incident on December, 31, between Cathedral Canyon Drive and Golf Club Drive. The victim, an adult male, says the suspect put on a ski mask, approached him yelling profanities, attacked him, and stabbed him before fleeing on foot. The victim was taken to a local hospital where he is being treated for his injuries.

The suspect is described as a thin white male in his 40s, last seen wearing a dark blue long-sleeve shirt, and his motive is unknown.

As concerns grow among people using the trail, News Channel 3 is seeking answers about safety.

When asked about enforcement, Capt. Gustavo Araiza of the Palm Springs Police Department explains, “Right now, we believe based on this incident that it was just a single occurrence. Granted, we’re going to be mindful of what’s going on.”

Araiza says they work closely with the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) to improve conditions on the CV Link. He adds local law enforcement is responsible for maintaining safety.

“We’re not setting up patrols right now unless we’re getting information from the community so that’s where the partnership comes in, right. We ask the community if something suspicious is going on, let us know… But if you’re talking about routine patrols, I don’t know if we’re there yet," says Araiza.

Officials say people can take extra steps to stay safe, including bringing a phone, letting someone know where they are, and avoiding going alone.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Gilberto Alcaraz at 760-323-8123 or via email at gilberto.alcaraz@palmspringsca.gov.

News Channel 3 reached out to CVAG but has not received a response.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.