BEWARE: Claremont Suspect Sought for Attempted Homicide

Written by AARON CASTREJON
CityWatch Editor

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CLAREMONT - A suspect free due to new Los Angeles County bail policies is now wanted for attempted homicide after stabbing someone at the Metrolink station Sunday.

Phillip Borunda, a 41-year-old transient, is accused of stabbing someone in the rib cage during a verbal argument at the Metrolink station, 200 W. First St., just before 4 p.m. October 22. The victim suffered very serious injuries and was taken to Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center for further treatment, according to the Claremont Police Department.

Shockingly, Borunda has had frequent run-ins with the law yet remains free. Since 2019, he has been arrested 14 times by Claremont police officers for crimes spanning arson, burglary, possessing stolen property and drug offenses.

“Borunda is currently out of custody awaiting arraignment for an arson arrest due to the Los Angeles County Bail Schedules and Pre-arraignment Release Protocols,” according to the Claremont Police Department in a written statement.

Borunda has a warrant for his arrest after failing to appear in court last month on a misdemeanor arson charge for a July 13 arrest.

The Claremont Police Officer Association is also pitting blame on a zero cash bail policy initiated by Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón, stating “unfortunately, District Attorney George Gascón’s “no-bail” policies have often resulted in his release without facing charges or consequences posing a significant threat to our community.”

Anyone with information leading to the arrest of Borunda, or who could help with the stabbing investigation is urged to call the Claremont Police Department at 909-399-5411.