Isla Vista Stabbing Suspect Arrested

SB Sheriff's Department

On Saturday, July 21st 2007, Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Deputies in Isla Vista responded to a report of a stabbing at 6651 Sabado Tarde Rd. When they arrived they found 22 year old Paul Ozhekh, who had been stabbed several times in the back. Witnesses to the attack said the victim and a friend were skateboarding down the street, when they engaged in a verbal altercation with another individual. The victim and the suspect ultimately stood face to face arguing, when the suspect stabbed the victim, and then fled on foot.

The victim was transported to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital with two stab wounds, one which had punctured his lung. He was taken into emergency surgery for his injuries.

Sheriff’s Detectives following up on the stabbing were able to obtain the name of a possible suspect, 20 year old David Hartsock of Santa Maria. While conducting a records check of Hartsock, Detectives learned that he was in custody in the Santa Barbara County Jail. Hartsock was arrested by the California Highway Patrol for Driving under the Influence after he crashed his car on the 101 freeway shortly after the time of the stabbing on July 21st.

On Tuesday July 24th, after speaking with the suspect, examining all of the evidence and circumstances surrounding the stabbing, Detectives arrested 20 year old David Hartsock on suspicion of attempted murder. Hartsock is currently being held in Santa Barbara County Jail.

The victim is currently recovering from his wounds. This incident is not considered to be gang related.