A 61-year-old woman who was fatally stabbed in Palmdale, allegedly by a relative, was identified by county authorities Wednesday.
The victim’s name was Sharon Rannels, according to the Los Angeles County medical examiner’s office.
Rannels was killed at about 8:30 p.m. on May 14 in the 2600 block of West Avenue N-8, between 25th Street West and 27th Street West, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
She was taken to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Brandon Tyrell Simmons, 33, a relative of Rannels, was seen leaving the location on foot, the sheriff’s department reported.
Simmons, who allegedly has a history of mental health issues that includes bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, and was considered armed and dangerous, was arrested May 15.
“The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Homicide Bureau Lieutenant Michael Modica, and the family of the victim extend their gratitude to the members of the public who provided multiple anonymous tips in response to the information wanted bulletin,” the LASD announced Saturday. “Thanks to the community’s assistance and information provided, Palmdale sheriff’s station deputies swiftly located, detained, and positively identified suspect Simmons before taking him into custody without incident.
“At this time, there is no longer any known threat to the community.”
Simmons was jailed without bail and was next due in court on June 24 in Lancaster, according to the sheriff’s department, although that date was subject to change.
Anyone with additional information about the killing was asked to call the sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Callers who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.