Los Angeles Man Charged with Murder in Fatal Stabbing of UCLA Graduate Amanda Torres

Los Angeles authorities have charged James Joshua Lopez, 24, with murder in connection with the fatal stabbing of Amanda Torres, 28, a recent UCLA graduate and community organizer. The attack occurred in the early morning hours of January 26, 2025, in downtown Los Angeles, following an altercation at a party.

Details of the Incident

The deadly encounter took place at approximately 12:40 a.m. in the 1100 block of South Los Angeles Street. Torres had been attending an after-party when her brother was allegedly attacked by a group of men. In an effort to intervene and protect him, she was fatally stabbed in the neck.

Investigators later determined that Lopez had been removed from the party earlier that night. However, he returned to the area, where he approached a small group outside the venue. Surveillance footage captured Lopez engaging with individuals moments before the stabbing occurred.

Emergency responders arrived to find Torres unconscious and unresponsive. Despite efforts to revive her, she died at the scene from her injuries.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

After an extensive investigation, prosecutors formally charged James Joshua Lopez with one count of murder under California Penal Code 187(a). The charge includes an allegation of personal use of a deadly weapon, specifically a knife, which could lead to an enhanced sentence if he is convicted.

Lopez’s arraignment is scheduled for March 3, 2025, at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center in downtown Los Angeles. If found guilty, he faces a potential sentence of 26 years to life in prison.

Background of the Victim and Community Response

Amanda Torres, 28, was a recent UCLA graduate and a dedicated community organizer. She was actively involved in social justice initiatives and was well known in Los Angeles’ electronic dance music scene, where she was affectionately called “Dandy Mandi.”

Her tragic and violent death has led to an outpouring of grief from family, friends, and the wider community. Many have spoken about her compassion, leadership, and dedication to making a difference in Los Angeles.

The 24-year-old suspect remains in custody on $2.02 million bail and is scheduled to appear in court on March 3, 2025.

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