Santa Barbara, Calif.  –  Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s detectives have arrested a Goleta man in connection with an attempted murder and stalking investigation.

On March 25, 2026, deputies responded to the 1100-block of Via Regina following a 911 call reporting an intruder fleeing from a residence. When deputies arrived, they located an adult male victim who had been stabbed multiple times. Deputies immediately rendered aid until medical personnel arrived. The victim was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

During the investigation, deputies identified the suspect as 39-year-old Jorge Luis Jijon-Lagara of Goleta. Deputies conducted an extensive search of surrounding neighborhoods that evening but were unable to locate him.

Investigators determined that Jijon-Lagara had been surveilling his ex-girlfriend, who was in a relationship with the victim.

The case was assigned to detectives, who continued the investigation. On Thursday, April 2, 2026, detectives served a search warrant and arrest warrant at a residence in the 200-block of Hillview Road in Goleta. Jijon-Lagara was taken into custody without incident and booked at the Santa Barbara County Main Jail on felony charges including attempted murder and stalking. He is being held without bail.

The victim is expected to recover.