18-year-old suspect arrested in Merced stabbing, accused of attempted murder

A, 18-year-old male could face attempted murder charges for allegedly stabbing a Merced man, while forcefully trying to enter the victim’s home, police say.

Officers responded to the 300 block of West 19th Street at about 5:30 p.m. for a reported stabbing. Joseph Lee Celestine, 18, allegedly knocked on the apartment door and attempted to force his way in. Police say the 48-year-old man who lives there opened the door.

Lt. Alan Ward said the occupant told police that when he didn’t allow the teen into his home, the suspect pulled out a knife and began slashing through the doorway while trying to enter. The occupant of the home was stabbed in the arm.

The wounded man was able to close the door to his apartment, and Celestine fled the scene. Police said people in the area provided officers with a suspect description and possible name.

Officers established a perimeter before locating and identifying the suspect several minutes later, Ward said. Police said the suspect ran from officers but was ultimately arrested in the 200 block alleyway of West 20th Street. Authorities said the injured man was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Celestine was booked into Merced County Jail on suspicion of attempted murder, assault with deadly weapon or force likely to produce great bodily injury and damage or destruction of property valued at $400 or more.

Celestine remains in the Merced County Sheriff’s Main Jail in lieu of $535,000 bond.

According to Ward, the occupant of the home said he doesn’t know Celestine and authorities haven’t identified a motive for the stabbing.

This story was originally published January 6, 2020 at 6:14 PM.