Authorities are currently searching for a man in Northern California who is suspected of attempting to kill another individual with a Japanese sword during a party in Mariposa County on Saturday.
The Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office reported that 41-year-old Jonathan Bayes allegedly used the sword to inflict multiple injuries on the victim at the Creekside Apartments after a confrontation arose between two groups at the event.
When law enforcement arrived, they discovered the victim had sustained wounds to the head, shoulder, wrist, and hand from the sword.
The injured party was subsequently taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Despite efforts involving a drone and helicopter, Bayes has not yet been located, and the search is ongoing.
Last seen leaving the apartment complex on foot, he was reportedly heading in the direction of the local prison.
Bayes, who has been temporarily residing in the area for the past year, is known to use multiple aliases.
At the time of his disappearance, he was dressed in a black sweater, tan pants, a camouflage hat, and black shoes.
An investigation revealed that Bayes had an outstanding arrest warrant from Idaho for a parole violation related to sexual abuse of a minor, as found in documents reviewed by authorities. He now faces charges of attempted murder.
Law enforcement has warned that anyone who encounters Bayes should avoid approaching him, as he is considered armed and dangerous, likely still in possession of the samurai sword.
The Sheriff’s Office encourages the public to report any information that may assist in locating him.
Officials clarified that this incident was isolated, stemming from a conflict between Bayes and another individual.
