Teen Fatally Stabbed Near Oceanside Pier

Detectives were searching Friday for the killer of a 17-year-old boy who was stabbed during an apparent gang-related fracas in a parking lot a few blocks from Oceanside Pier.

Patrol officers responding to a report of an assault in the 200 block of Mission Avenue found the mortally wounded teen about 8:45 p.m. Thursday, according to police.

Medics took him to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His name was withheld pending family notification.

Witnesses told investigators the slaying occurred during a brawl that followed a verbal argument in which two groups of youths traded rival gang challenges.

But there was no evidence the victim had any gang affiliations, Lt. Aaron Doyle said.

The Oceanside Police Department has set up an anonymous tip line for witnesses. Anyone with information about the slaying should call 760-435-4730.

— City News Service