Overview
- A woman was stabbed to death near the Macy’s/food court entrance at Capitola Mall on Monday and died at the scene despite life-saving efforts.
- Police located and arrested 19-year-old Tyler T. Leibelt on the 1400 block of 41st Avenue about 30 minutes after the attack and say the incident appears to be random.
- Court filings allege Leibelt purchased knives, described long‑standing homicidal fantasies, stalked the victim and stabbed her more than 11 times, and prosecutors added enhancements including lying in wait and deadly-weapon use.
- Leibelt was arraigned in Santa Cruz County Superior Court, remanded to custody without bail, and his next court date is set for July 29 as the district attorney pursues enhanced charges.
- The Capitola Mall has reopened, investigators are asking the public for photos or video to help the probe, and friends and co-workers are mourning Rachell Summers, the 73-year-old gallery manager killed in the attack.