Escaped State Hospital Patient Arrested After Incident in South Pasadena

Police used a Taser to subdue the man after he allegedly tried to kick in a local resident's front door.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:19am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged door frame, capturing the harsh, gritty details of the crime scene without depicting any actual violence or victims.A recent incident of an escaped state hospital patient attempting to forcibly enter a South Pasadena home has raised concerns about public safety and mental health facility security.Pasadena Today

A man who had recently escaped from a California state hospital was arrested by South Pasadena police after allegedly attempting to break into a local resident's home. Officers used a Taser to subdue the man, who was then returned to state custody. Police are asking anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward.

Why it matters

The incident highlights concerns about the security and oversight of state mental health facilities, as well as the potential risks posed by escaped patients to public safety in local communities.

The details

According to reports, the man allegedly tried to kick in the front door of a home near Milan Avenue and Oak Street in South Pasadena after escaping from a California State Hospital. Police responded to the scene and used a Taser to subdue the man, who was resisting arrest. He was then returned to state custody.

  • The incident occurred recently in South Pasadena.

The players

South Pasadena Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested the escaped patient.

California State Hospital

The mental health facility from which the patient had recently escaped.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure the safety and security of our state mental health facilities to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.”

— Chief of Police, South Pasadena Police Department

What’s next

The South Pasadena Police Department is asking anyone with additional information about the incident to contact them or Crime Stoppers.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for improved oversight and security measures at state mental health facilities to protect both patients and the surrounding community from potential harm.