USC Student Won’t Face Charges for Fatal Stabbing

‘We believe that Mr. Gallegos’ actions were driven by a genuine fear for his life and the lives of others,’ District Attorney George Gascón said in a statement.

A student rides his skateboard past an entrance to the University of Southern California campus in Los Angeles on April 11, 2012. Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images

LOS ANGELES—A 19-year-old USC student who confronted and fatally stabbed a man he witnessed breaking into cars near the university’s Greek Row will not face any criminal charges, the District Attorney’s Office announced Thursday.

“After careful consideration and a thorough review of all available evidence, we have decided not to pursue charges against USC student Ivan Gallegos,” District Attorney George Gascón said in a statement. “We believe that Mr. Gallegos’ actions were driven by a genuine fear for his life and the lives of others. Our heart goes out to the deceased’s family, friends and everyone impacted by this tragic incident.”