Thugs visiting Huntington Beach arrested after attack

HUNTINGTON BEACH — An exchange of words between one man and a gang of four that included a woman resulted in a St. Patrick’s night assault, a police pursuit and ultimately four arrests.

Brandon Espinoza, 19, of Montebello; Aaron Salinas, 19, of Whittier; Viana Arevalo, 20, of Whittier; and a juvenile male whose name was not released were all taken into custody following the incident which began to unfold about 6:45 p.m. on Pacific Coast Highway at 7th Street.

According to a police report, the 25-year old victim was crossing Pacific Coast Highway and, as he reached the north side of the street, was confronted by the four subjects as they drove by in a silver Infinity. A verbal clash ensued, the Infinity coming to a stop and the four occupants emerging to attack the lone pedestrian.

During the physical altercation that followed, the victim was stabbed several times and some of his possessions were stolen. The four suspects then got back into the Infinity and took off westbound.

Huntington Beach police were able to identify and locate the vehicle a few miles north as it continued down Pacific Coast Highway past Bolsa Chica State Beach. Attempts by officers to pull the car over initially failed as the suspects made an effort to escape, turning northbound up Warner Avenue.

The pursuit was short-lived, however, as the driver soon pulled over and the four suspects were taken into custody.

Espinoza faces charges of robbery and assault with a deadly weapon; Salinas was arrested for suspicion of robbery and evading; and Arelalo suspicion of robbery. Any charges against the male juvenile were unavailable and the investigation is ongoing.

Despite reports that he had been stabbed and suffered other lacerations, the victim declined any medical treatment at the scene.