Teen hospitalized after fight and stabbing near East Victoria Street in Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - The Santa Barbara Police Department responded to multiple reports of a fight that occurred on the 1300 block of Olive Street Tuesday evening.

"Upon investigation, the Santa Barbara Police Department
found a victim that had retreated westbound to a residence and was seriously injured," said Anthony Wagner, the spokesperson for the Santa Barbara Police Department. "We're currently investigating this as an assault with a deadly weapon."

Five people were reportedly seen fleeing the scene.

Police are searching along East Victoria Street and Olive Street for the suspects and any more evidence. Multiple officers are walking carefully down the sidewalk with flashlights. It is unknown if the weapon involved has been recovered.

One victim was transported to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. Witnesses at the scene say the victim was badly hurt. He is an 18-year old who lives in the area.

Family members were assisting police with information. A relative was attempting to rush the wounded victim to the hospital when police, fire and AMR arrived and moved the teen from a car to the ambulance.

As of 11:00 p.m. Tuesday night, the 18-year-old is in emergency surgery with critical injuries.

This incident happened around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday evening.

Neighbors in the area are assisting police with eyewitness information. Police are checking video surveillance as well.

We will update this story when more details become available.