Salinas man arrested for attempted murder, kidnapping

A Salinas man is behind bars after officers say he tried to kill his ex-girlfriend.

Salinas Police say officers responded to a call in the 1800 block of Truckee Way, where the victim called to report her ex-boyfriend, 28-year-old Donavan Johnson was at her residence causing a disturbance and was not welcome.

Before officers could respond, Johnson had left the residence. The victim later called again to report Johnson had returned and forced his way into the residence. Officers arrived as the suspect sped away from the area. Officers tried to pull him over, but Johnson did not yield and a chase began. It eventually ended when the suspect stopped at the emergency entrance to Natividad hospital.

Officers discovered the victim was in the vehicle with the suspect. The 28-year-old victim was suffering from numerous deep lacerations to her back, both legs, both arms and her face. The victim who was bleeding profusely was rushed into the emergency room and immediately taken into surgery.

The cuts were caused by a knife that was recovered from the vehicle. The investigation revealed Johnson had entered the residence through a window, and attempted to drag the victim from the residence. A victim’s relative attempted to intervene and blocked his path. Officers say Johnson threw the victim to the ground, punched her in the face and then began slashing her with the knife. The suspect realized the victim was seriously injured and proceeded to drive her to the hospital as officers arrived on Truckee Way just prior to initiating the pursuit.

Johnson was arrested and transported to county jail on charges of attempted murder, kidnapping and assault with a deadly weapon.