By F. Scott Faulkner
SANTA MARIA, CA – May 10, 2025
A 44-year-old woman is dead following a stabbing that has rocked a quiet neighborhood in Santa
Maria.
Just before 11 a.m. on Friday, May 9, Santa Maria Police Department patrol officers responded
to a report of a possible stabbing at a private residence.
According to Santa Maria Police Lt. Paul Van Meel, “they found a woman suffering from multiple wounds.” Emergency responders
rendered aid at the scene before transporting her to Marian Regional Medical Center, where she
later succumbed to her injuries.
Police quickly identified and arrested Eduardo De Guzman Torres, 63, of Santa Maria “without
incident” at the home where the stabbing occurred.
He was taken into custody and transported to Santa Barbara County Jail, with his bail set at $2, million.
The motive behind the stabbing has not been disclosed, and police have not confirmed the nature of the relationship between Torres and the victim.
However, detectives and crime scene technicians remained on site throughout the day, canvassing the neighborhood, collecting
evidence, and speaking with witnesses.
“The investigation is ongoing, and we’re urging anyone with information to come forward,” Van
Meel said.
