Transient arrested for machete attack near Watsonville school, deputies say

A transient man was arrested Tuesday morning for allegedly attacking a victim with a machete and a bat near a homeless camp in Watsonville, according to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies said the victim showed up at Watsonville Hospital, after an altercation at the campsite near East Lake Ave. and Holohan Rd. across from Lakeview Middle School.

Lawrence Saavedra, 40, was arrested near the campsite after a search by deputies. The Sheriff’s Office said the victim was treated for moderate injuries and was later released.

Deputies said they found the bat, but are still searching for the machete.