45-year-old transient Elliot Tramel Nowden, is suspected of fatally stabbing a woman as she exited a Metro train in North Hollywood. Nowden was previously arrested in June 2019 for attacking a passenger on a Metro train in Los Angeles County, leading to a 3-year probation term and an order to stay away from Metro trains. However, just a few weeks later, Nowden was charged with assault with a deadly weapon and battery, resulting in a 4-year prison sentence. He was released on parole in March 2023, despite violating his probation and being arrested for trespassing in January 2023.
On Monday, Nowden allegedly stabbed a woman in the throat shortly after 5 a.m. as she got off the train at the Universal Studios platform. The victim was taken to a local hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. Police apprehended Nowden near the intersection of Ventura Boulevard and Vineland Avenue, and he is currently being held on $2 million bail.
Police Chief Dominic Choi addressed concerns about Metro security during the Police Commissioners meeting, stating that deployment of officers is based on crime trends and ridership patterns. He emphasized the presence of officers on trains, in stations, and on buses, as well as Metro ambassadors, to enhance safety. However, Choi acknowledged the limitations of being able to be everywhere at all times and stressed the importance of community engagement and swift response to incidents.
Investigators suspect that Nowden may have attacked others, and they urge anyone with information to contact the LAPD’s Operations Valley Bureau Homicide Detectives at (818) 374-9550.
