[04-23-2025] Los Angeles County, CA – Man Fatally Stabbed in Valley Village Apartment; Suspect Charged With Murder

A man was killed in a fatal stabbing after a break-in at an apartment complex in Valley Village, Los Angeles, on Wednesday morning, April 23, 2025.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department and District Attorney’s Office, the incident occurred just before 4:00 a.m. inside a fifth-floor unit at the Ashton Sherman Village complex located in the 12600 block of Riverside Drive.

The victim, 53-year-old Menashe H., was found dead during a welfare check three days later on April 26.

Authorities allege that 27-year-old Erick E. accessed the building’s roof and used a skylight to break into a vacant apartment adjacent to the victim’s unit. He then reportedly climbed from the vacant unit’s balcony to Menashe’s and entered, leading to a violent confrontation. Erick allegedly stabbed Menashe to death with a screwdriver.

Erick, who was reportedly captured on surveillance trying to access other units using a screwdriver, was arrested nearly two weeks later at a local hospital. He has been charged with murder and residential burglary, with special allegations including use of a deadly weapon and commission of murder during a burglary.

Following the incident, Menashe’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the apartment complex, citing over 50 prior complaints to management regarding security issues and unauthorized access.

The case remains under investigation.

Connect With Apartment Accident Lawyers In Los Angeles, CA

If you were injured in an apartment accident due to hazardous conditions, lack of proper maintenance, or negligent security, you may have the right to seek compensation. Property owners have a legal responsibility to keep their premises safe. When they fail to do so, tenants and guests can suffer serious injuries or, in some cases, wrongful death.

At Arash Law, our apartment accident attorneys in Los Angeles help individuals and families pursue claims involving falls, structural hazards, fires, and criminal acts resulting from inadequate security. We carefully assess each case, determine liability, and guide you through the legal process, whether that means negotiating with insurance companies or moving forward with a lawsuit.

We are here to help ease the burden so you can focus on recovery or, if you lost a loved one, take the time to heal. Our role is to provide the legal support and assurance you need during a difficult time.

To speak with our lawyers, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free consultation.

Steps To Take After an Apartment Accident

Getting injured in an apartment complex can be both physically painful and emotionally stressful. Whether the accident was caused by poor maintenance, unsafe conditions, or negligent security, knowing what to do next is essential. These steps can help protect your health and support any legal claim you may pursue.

1. Get Medical Care Right Away
   Your safety comes first. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately noticeable. Visit a doctor or urgent care facility to get a full evaluation and keep records of your diagnosis and treatment.
2. Notify The Property Owner Or Manager
   Report the accident to your landlord, building supervisor, or property manager as soon as possible. Ask for a copy of any incident report they complete and keep a written record of your communication.
3. Take Photos And Videos Of The Scene
   Document the location where the accident occurred. Focus on capturing dangerous conditions like broken railings, slippery floors, faulty lighting, or damaged steps. Also, photograph your injuries and anything that could support your claim.
4. Gather Witness Information
   If anyone witnessed the accident, ask for their name and contact details. Their statements may help verify what happened and strengthen your case.
5. Save Any Physical Evidence
   Hold on to the clothing, shoes, or personal items involved in the accident. Do not repair or throw anything away, especially if it could help demonstrate how the incident occurred.
6. Limit Communication With Insurance Companies
   If you are contacted by an insurance adjuster, avoid giving recorded statements or signing anything without first speaking to a lawyer. Insurance companies often aim to settle quickly and for as little as possible.
7. Contact An Apartment Accident Attorney
   Legal guidance can make a difference. An attorney can help you understand your rights, determine who is responsible, and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries, lost wages, or other related expenses.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Apartment Accident Statistics

In recent years, more Americans have chosen to rent their homes rather than own them. According to Gatsby Investment, 35.2% of people in the United States live in rental properties such as apartments. In Los Angeles, this trend is even more prominent, with 64.3% of residents renting their homes. As of the first quarter of 2024, the average monthly rent in Los Angeles County is $2,638. This reflects a 14.09% increase compared to the previous year and an average annual growth rate of 4.94% since 2000.

As the number of renters grows, so does the concern for safety and accountability in apartment living. Incidents involving negligent security, including break-ins, unauthorized access, and violent crimes, have drawn increased attention in recent years. Property owners and managers have a legal obligation to take reasonable steps to protect tenants and visitors from foreseeable harm. This includes maintaining secure entryways, ensuring proper lighting in common areas, and responding promptly to safety complaints.

When these responsibilities are ignored, the consequences can be severe. In some cases, failure to address known risks can lead to wrongful death. Under premises liability law, landlords may be held accountable if someone is injured or killed due to unsafe conditions or a lack of security measures. Legal claims may arise when it is shown that a property owner knew or should have known about a danger and failed to act.

With more people living in rental housing, especially in densely populated areas like Los Angeles, the importance of enforcing safety standards and holding property owners accountable has never been greater.