Night clerk hurt in knife attack

Police are on the lookout for a man who attacked a night clerk at the Shell Gas Station at 1120 E. Los Angeles Ave. with a knife.

According to reports, the suspect, described as an Hispanic in his early 20s, 5 feet 7 inches tall with a slender build and brown eyes, attacked the clerk from behind after inquiring about making a purchase.

The clerk said the attacker held a knife under his chin and a struggle ensued for control of the weapon.

During the struggle, the victim suffered minor cuts on his chin and hands.

AMR paramedics arrived on the scene and treated the man’s wounds.

An immediate search of the area for the assailant came up empty.

Police said later that robbery did not appear to be the motive behind the late-night attack.

The case has been referred to the department’s detective unit for further investigation.

— Kyle Jorrey