Fatal Stabbing in Orange: 20-Year-Old Arrested in Death of Sergio Esquivel Sanchez
Orange, CA – June 14, 2025 — A young man is behind bars after a fatal stabbing early Friday morning in the city of Orange, prompting a homicide investigation by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD). Authorities confirmed that 20-year-old Melchor Aleszi has been arrested in connection with the death of 24-year-old Sergio Esquivel Sanchez.
According to a statement released by the OCSD, deputies responded to a report of people screaming and possibly fighting near the intersection of Rancho Santiago Boulevard and Hewes Street at approximately 1:24 a.m. on June 13. Upon arrival, deputies encountered a scene indicative of a violent confrontation. Evidence at the location pointed to a possible assault having taken place, although no victims were initially located at the scene.
Shortly after, OCSD dispatch was notified that a male subject had arrived at a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries. The victim was identified as Sergio Esquivel Sanchez, who had sustained a stab wound to the chest. Despite efforts by medical personnel to save him, Sanchez succumbed to his injuries.
OCSD Homicide Investigators were called to take over the case and immediately began processing the scene and interviewing potential witnesses. Their investigation led them to identify Melchor Aleszi as the suspect in the fatal incident. Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for the stabbing or the relationship, if any, between the suspect and the victim. They are continuing to gather information, and additional details are expected to emerge as the case progresses.
Aleszi was taken into custody and has been booked into the Orange County Jail on suspicion of homicide. As of Saturday, he remains held without bail pending a court appearance.
Residents in the normally quiet neighborhood expressed shock and sadness over the violent event. “It’s tragic to hear something like this happened so close to home,” said one local resident. “We heard sirens in the early morning, but never imagined it would be a murder.”
The Orange County Sheriff’s Department is urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that could aid investigators to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through OC Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.
The investigation remains active, with authorities focused on piecing together the events leading up to the fatal stabbing and securing justice for the victim and his family.
