Police Looking for Suspect in Leadbetter Beach Stabbing

Update by Santa Barbara Police Department
5:15 p.m., January 2, 2018

Santa Barbara Police Department is releasing the name, photo and detailed description of a woman wanted for questioning in relation to a stabbing at Leadbetter Beach last Sunday.

The attack resulted in stab wounds to the torso and leg of a female victim.  She was treated at Cottage Hospital for her injuries.

The alleged suspect, Nichole Ann Ortiz, a 36 year old Santa Barbara resident, stands at 5 foot 5 inches, 130 pounds. She has shoulder-length brown hair and hazel eyes.

She’s been known to frequent the Eastside, specifically the Milpas Corridor.  Ortiz does not maintain a residence and may be living on the streets. A $30,000 warrant has been issued for Ortiz for assault with a deadly weapon.  Should anyone in the public see Ortiz, contact authorities immediately via 9-1-1. 

On Sunday, December 31, 2017 at 1807 hours, Santa Barbara Police Officers responded to a stabbing at Leadbetter Beach.  Upon arrival, officers discovered a female victim with several stab wounds.

At the time, it was determined that several local transients were gathered at one of the picnic tables, eating and drinking when an argument started.  Initial investigation suggests a female suspect known to the victim who stabbed her — left the scene prior to police arrival.

Update by edhat staff
9:15 a.m., January 1, 2018

A 42-year-old woman was stabbed numerous times during an apparent altercation between a group of transients near the Shoreline Beach Cafe at 801 Shoreline Drive, according to the Santa Barbara Police Department.

She was transported to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, her condition is unknown.

No arrests have been made.

Reported by Roger the Scanner Guy
6:12 p.m., December 31, 2017

Stabbing near the Shoreline Beach Café, the victim possibly at Leadbetter Beach. SBPD is on scene with Engine 6 Batt 712 and Medics responding.