Man Faces Attempted Murder Charge After Attacking Woman at Pasadena Metro Station
PASADENA, CA – A 33-year-old man, Juan Pablo Flores, has been charged with attempted murder following a vicious attack on a woman at the Allen Metro Station in Pasadena. The incident, which occurred on the morning of August 7, 2024, has shocked the community and raised serious concerns about the safety of public transit systems.
On August 7, at approximately 5:30 a.m., Flores allegedly launched an unprovoked attack on a woman who was waiting at the Metro A Line’s Allen Station, located near the 210 Freeway. According to reports, Flores physically assaulted the victim, punching her multiple times before throwing her onto the train tracks. The situation escalated as Flores then dragged the woman across the cement divider and threw her into the carpool lane of the 210 Freeway, exposing her to oncoming traffic. Fortunately, she was able to escape and return to the platform, where she was later transported to a hospital. The victim is currently in stable condition.
Flores was arrested shortly after the attack at the intersection of Allen Avenue and Villa Street by Sheriff’s Transit Bureau personnel. He has since been charged with two felonies: one count of attempted murder and one count of mayhem, both of which carry severe legal consequences.
Charges Filed Against Juan Pablo Flores in Pasadena Assault
Attempted Murder (Penal Code 664/187): Juan Pablo Flores is formally charged with attempted murder, pursuant to California Penal Code sections 664 and 187. This charge addresses actions that constitute a willful and deliberate attempt to end another person’s life. Prosecutors are expected to argue that Flores’ assault, which included punching the victim and throwing her onto train tracks and then into freeway traffic, was an explicit attempt to kill. The charge of attempted murder is classified as a felony and may result in a life sentence if Flores is found guilty.
Mayhem (Penal Code 203): Alongside attempted murder, Flores faces a charge of mayhem under California Penal Code section 203. This charge is levied when a person maliciously causes another person severe physical injury, intending to permanently disfigure or disable them. The assault, characterized by multiple punches and the act of dragging the victim across a cement divider into traffic, underpins this charge. Mayhem is a serious felony that could significantly extend Flores’ incarceration if he is convicted.
Official Reactions and Next Steps After Assault
Following the assault, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón condemned the violence, emphasizing the unacceptability of such acts on public transit. He stated, “No one should have to endure such brutality, and everyone deserves to go about their day without fear for their safety.” Gascón affirmed his commitment to hold those responsible for violent crimes accountable.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger praised the rapid response of the transit deputies and called for an immediate review of public transit safety protocols, stressing the need for enhanced security measures during the early morning hours to prevent future incidents.
County Supervisor Janice Hahn highlighted the need for a comprehensive investigation to ensure that Metro’s contracted law enforcement and security personnel are adequately protecting commuters at vulnerable times.
Juan Pablo Flores faces serious charges of attempted murder and mayhem for his actions on August 7, 2024. With the possibility of a life sentence if convicted, Flores remains in custody with bail set at $2 million. He is due for arraignment on August 13, 2024, at the Pasadena Courthouse.
Under the law, an indictment merely contains allegations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
