BREAKING NEWS: A 34-year-old man in La Mesa was arrested on October 14, 2023, after allegedly threatening an 11-year-old child with a knife and making threats against police officers. The incident unfolded in an apartment complex on Comanche Drive during a tense standoff that lasted over three hours.
Police received a call about the man, identified as Peter DePrince, brandishing a knife and nearly injuring the child. Upon arrival, authorities reported that DePrince made veiled threats from a balcony, indicating he could shoot at officers. The immediate danger prompted a swift response, leading to the evacuation of nearby apartments.
A woman accompanying the child informed police that DePrince had been arming himself before they managed to escape the apartment. In a coordinated effort, the La Mesa Police Special Response Team and the San Diego Sheriff’s Emergency Negotiations Team were deployed to the scene.
At approximately 3:34 P.M., DePrince exited the apartment unarmed and was taken into custody. He now faces serious charges including Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Felony Child Endangerment. Fortunately, the child was not injured during the ordeal and has since been evaluated at Rady Children’s Hospital before being placed in the care of a family member.
This alarming incident highlights the ongoing concerns about safety in residential areas and the swift actions of law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals. As investigations continue, the community is left to grapple with the implications of such violent threats.
Stay tuned for further updates as authorities provide more information on this developing story.
