Santa Rosa, CA – A horrific stabbing incident shook a quiet Santa Rosa neighborhood on Monday evening after a man allegedly entered a local restaurant on Yulupa Avenue and attacked a former coworker with a cleaver, leaving the victim in critical condition.

According to the Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD), the suspect—identified as 39-year-old Li Zhiqing—was a former employee of the establishment where the attack took place. Investigators say Zhiqing entered the restaurant shortly before closing hours and targeted a 43-year-old male employee, launching a sudden and violent assault with a cleaver.

Witnesses described a scene of chaos as diners and staff scrambled for safety. Emergency services were immediately contacted, and officers arrived on the scene within minutes. However, by the time police arrived, Zhiqing had already fled the premises. The victim, who sustained multiple severe wounds, was treated at the scene by paramedics and transported to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical condition.

SRPD launched a swift investigation, utilizing surveillance footage and witness statements to identify and locate the suspect. Within hours, officers apprehended Zhiqing at a residence in southeast Santa Rosa without incident. He was taken into custody and transported to Sonoma County Jail.

Authorities have confirmed that Li Zhiqing is facing multiple felony charges, including Attempted Murder, Criminal Threats, and Mayhem—a rare and serious charge under California law, typically applied in cases involving acts of extreme bodily harm or disfigurement.

“This was a targeted and brutal assault,” said SRPD spokesperson Sgt. Christopher Mahurin in a press release. “The suspect clearly intended to cause grave injury, and thanks to the quick work of our officers, he is now in custody. We are continuing our investigation to determine the motive behind this violent act.”

The nature of the relationship between Zhiqing and the victim is still under investigation, though early indications suggest a possible personal or professional dispute. SRPD has not ruled out the potential for additional charges as the case develops.

Local residents and businesses expressed shock in the aftermath of the incident, noting that the restaurant is typically a peaceful fixture in the community. “I’ve been coming here for years, and nothing like this has ever happened,” said one patron who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s terrifying to think something so violent could happen in a place like this.”

The restaurant remains temporarily closed as police continue to collect evidence and interview staff and customers who were present during the attack. Meanwhile, the community is rallying support for the victim and his family, with some local organizations reportedly planning a fundraiser to assist with medical expenses.

Anyone with additional information about the incident is urged to contact the Santa Rosa Police Department’s Violent Crimes Investigations Team.

As the investigation unfolds, the case has sparked broader conversations about workplace violence and mental health support for employees in high-stress environments. Authorities are reminding residents to report any suspicious or threatening behavior early to prevent future tragedies.