Taylor Cusimano
Co-News Editor
Shortly after midnight on Oct. 4, deputies responded to reports of a large fight involving multiple people on the 6700 block of Del Playa Drive in Isla Vista (I.V.). When they arrived, they found two men with stab wounds. Both were taken to a local hospital and are expected to recover.
In a statement, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office said, “Detectives believe several suspects were involved and that multiple people may have witnessed the fight. They are also seeking any cell phone videos or photos that could help with the investigation.”
Additional details about the suspects or a possible motive have not been released yet. No arrests have been made, and officials said there is no ongoing threat to the community.
On Oct. 1, the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (ASFSR) was updated to include current crime statistics and policy statements for the 2025–2026 academic year. In the report, Interim Chief of Police Matthew Bly stated, “Throughout the 2025–2026 academic year, [the UC Police Department] will continue to partner with our student and community leaders on innovative safety strategies and crime reduction programs.”
The stabbing highlights a wider shift in crime patterns across I.V. and Santa Barbara County. Bly stressed, “Safety is a shared vision at UC Santa Barbara. By collaborating with our community and sharing campus safety and security information, we aim to increase awareness and stimulate participation in this shared responsibility for maintaining a safe campus environment.”
While total reported crime in I.V. declined slightly in 2024, violent offenses increased, according to data from the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. Reported crimes in I.V. fell from 233 in 2023 to 224 in 2024, marking a 4 percent decrease. During that same period, aggravated assaults rose from 37 to 45, a 22 percent increase.
Countywide data reflects a similar pattern, as the Sheriff’s Office reported that overall crimes, including violent and property offenses, dropped from 2,679 in 2022 to 2,225 in 2023, a 17 percent decrease. However, aggravated assaults increased from 174 to 209 during that time. The Oct. 4 stabbing took place just after the report was released. Bly emphasized UC Santa Barbara Police Department’s dedication to working alongside the community and campus departments, adding, “Together we make our campus a safe place for all.” The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate and asks anyone with information to contact investigators at (805) 681-4150 or the anonymous tip line at (805) 681-4171.