Authorities release description of suspect in fatal west Modesto stabbing

Authorities have a suspect description and a nickname, but no real name, in a fatal stabbing at a west Modesto park over the weekend.

Investigators are looking for a man who goes by the name “Alabama,” Modesto Police Department spokeswoman Heather Graves said Monday. She said witnesses to the Friday night stabbing recognized the attacker but did not know his real name.

Detectives are looking for the man responsible for the death of Robbie Hull Jr., found by police at 9:12 p.m. in the west Modesto park.

Officers responded to a 911 call of a man being stabbed. They found Hull lying face down with stab wounds to his chest. Investigators believe the attacker used a large machete.

Hull was taken to Doctors Medical Center, where he died in surgery about 11:30 p.m.

Investigators believe Hull was involved in a fight with a man near the park. He tried to walk away, Graves said, but the man stabbed him several times.

The attacker is described as black, 38 to 40 years old, 160 to 170 pounds and with a dark complexion. He may be driving a “square or boxy car,” Graves said.

Investigators ask anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward. Tipsters may also text information to Crime Stoppers at 274637. Type “TIP704” along with your message.

This story was originally published April 20, 2015 at 4:52 PM with the headline "Authorities release description of suspect in fatal west Modesto stabbing."