Authorities in Lancaster County have arrested a suspect following a deadly stabbing incident in East Hempfield Township on Monday (July 20). According to the Lancaster County District Attorney's Office, the suspect, Benjamin Garcia Gual, 49, allegedly stabbed two siblings, resulting in the death of one.
Police responded to a call at a residence on Persimmon Drive around 10:34 a.m. They discovered a 28-year-old woman dead at the scene and a 24-year-old man with multiple stab wounds. The man was transported to a hospital, though the extent of his injuries remains unknown. The suspect, who fled the scene before police arrived, was apprehended near Route 30 and Good Drive after a search involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including Pennsylvania State Police and the Manheim Township Police Department.
The deceased woman has been identified as Carmen Martinez-Silva. Her brother, Luis Martinez-Silva, survived despite suffering severe injuries, including stab wounds to his skull, chest, and abdomen. According to police, Garcia Gual had a romantic relationship with Carmen Martinez-Silva and allegedly attacked her over a disagreement about her haircut.
CBS 21, reports that Garcia Gual is facing charges of criminal homicide, attempted criminal homicide, aggravated assault, and other related offenses. He is currently being held in Lancaster County Prison without bail.
The investigation is ongoing, but authorities have assured the public that there is no further danger. Crimewatch notes that Garcia Gual waived his preliminary hearing and will stand trial in the Court of Common Pleas.
This incident marks the eighth homicide in Lancaster County this year, according to CBS 21. The intersection of Persimmon Drive and Sweetbriar Way remained closed as investigators continued to work at the scene.