Suspect Arrested for Allegedly Slashing Man on Lakeshore

LAKE ELSINORE - A man suspected of slashing a swimmer at Lake Elsinore July 21 over a misunderstanding that began with a family squabble was arrested today.

Antoine Andre Wong, 21, was picked up at a Circle K in the 33900 block of Mission Trail, booked on suspicion of attempted murder and jailed in Murrieta, with bail set at $1 million, sheriff's Sgt. Patrick Chavez said. Wong also had warrants stemming from other allegations.

The attack near Kellogg Street and Lakeshore Drive happened when Wong got into an argument a 21-year-old swimmer who was arguing with family members.

Wong and his friends mistakenly believed the squabble was about them and approached the family, triggering a verbal confrontation, Chavez said.

''The mother of the victim intervened, at which time the suspect punched her,'' the sergeant said. ''The victim defended his mother and was punched by the suspect.''

Wong also allegedly slashed the man, who didn't realize he was bleeding profusely until the suspect had fled, according to Chavez.

The victim was rushed to a hospital and stabilized. Wong was apparently identified soon afterward, but remained at large until today.