Neighborhood stabbing leaves grandma dead, one more injured

BERKELEY, CA – A neighborhood in the Berkeley hills was struck by a violent incident on Saturday afternoon, leaving residents in shock and mourning. A woman in her 60s was fatally stabbed, and another individual was also injured in the attack.

Local law enforcement reported that the woman was assaulted and killed in her residence on the 1000 block of Overlook Road around 12:30 p.m. The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Jonah Roper, is believed to be the victim’s son. Police were alerted to the incident by several calls from neighbors who heard distressing cries for help.

Mardi Sicular, a local resident, expressed the community’s grief. The victim, who lived with her partner and granddaughter, was a doula and a cherished member of the community. She was known for her kindness, generosity, and her talent for making jewelry.

Witnesses reported that following the attack, the suspect chased the victim’s partner down the street. The partner, however, managed to escape unharmed. The suspect then reportedly ran into a nearby yard, stabbed another woman, and stole a car to flee the scene.

Police officers located the shooting suspect in the stolen vehicle and pursued him until a collision occurred. Jesicca Kanat, who was arriving at work, witnessed the end of the police chase. She described hearing sirens and a loud crash, followed by the sight of several police cars and a man being apprehended.

Back in the Berkeley hills, investigators continued their work, going door to door to gather information. While the motive behind the violent attack is still unclear, police have indicated that it was not a random act of violence.