Wednesday, Jun. 11, 2008

Modesto man accused of stabbing 15-year-old Ballico girl

BALLICO — A 15-year-old girl is recovering after she was allegedly stabbed Monday by a 21-year-old man.

Merced County Sheriff’s Department spokesperson Tom MacKenzie said the girl reported the stabbing occurred during an argument between her and the suspect.

MacKenzie said Daniel Monrroy, 21, of Modesto, who was driving near Santa Fe Avenue and Pepper Street, asked the girl whether she was dating someone new. The victim reported that Monrroy stopped the car and walked to the passenger side of the vehicle, where he began hitting her, then stabbed her in the forearm and pelvic area.

A passerby witnessed the attack and confronted the suspect, MacKenzie said. The witness took the victim to a nearby gas station and called the sheriff’s department, MacKenzie said. Monrroy they fled the scene.

Investigators are asking anyone with information about Monrroy's whereabouts to call 385-7444.