FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lt. Chris Wynn, (760) 839-4444 / Media Relations
On March 14, 2012, at about 9:58 PM, the Escondido Police Department Communications Division received an emergency call reference a male subject who had a serious neck injury. Officers arrived on scene in the 100 Block of West Vermont Avenue and found a male victim with a stab wound to the upper chest and a significant laceration to his neck.
The victim was transported to a local hospital where he underwent medical treatment. At this time he is listed in critical, but stable condition. He is expected to survive.
Detectives and forensic technicians were called to scene and began an investigation into the incident. The motive for the attack appears to be robbery.
Detectives identified and arrested one of the suspects from this case. Michael Lawrence Rathbun, 22 years old, of San Marcos was arrested near the crime scene. He will be charged with Robbery, Burglary, Attempt Murder, Conspiracy and Possession of a Controlled Substance. Rathbun is being processed at the Escondido Police Department and will be booked at the Vista Detention Facility.
Detectives have identified the second suspect in this attack as David Solomon Ballard. He is a 27 year old, Black male adult. Ballard is six feet tall and weighs approximately 185 pounds. Ballard is believed to be on foot in the area of the crime scene. His photo is shown on this alert.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of David Ballard should call the Escondido Police Department. If you see Ballard contact 911 for assistance. Do not attempt to contact or apprehend Ballard.
Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to the contact the Escondido Police Department Investigations Bureau at (760) 839-4717.
