NEWS RELEASE:

CASTRO VALLEY, CA- On Sunday, September 9, 2018, about 3:45pm, ACSO deputies were assigned to the Castro Valley Fall Festival when they were alerted to a possible knife attack at one of the vendor booths.

Deputies arrived at the booth and made contact with the victim who is running as a political candidate for a local congressional seat.

According to witness statements, Farzad Fazeli (35) approached the victim in an aggressive manner and made disparaging remarks about his political party and elected officials. During the incident, Fazeli is suspected to have pulled out a switchblade knife and attempted to stab the victim. The knife malfunctioned and the victim became involved in a physical struggle with Fazeli.

Fazeli fled the scene but was detained a short time later by deputies. A switchblade knife was located on his person.

Fazeli was placed under arrest for felony assault, criminal threats, brandishing a weapon and possession of a switchblade knife. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

No serious injuries were reported as a result of the incident. The case has been forwarded to the District Attorney.

Sgt. Ray Kelly
Public Information Officer

Image may contain: 1 person, closeup