Woman Escapes Stabbing Attack in Moving SUV on Highway 101

Suspect arrested on attempted murder and other charges after violent incident in Salinas, California

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A woman was stabbed while riding in a vehicle on Highway 101 in Salinas, California over the weekend. She was able to escape the moving SUV and call for help. Police later arrested the registered owner of the vehicle, 19-year-old Evelio Ramirez Ruiz, on charges including attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and kidnapping.

Why it matters

This violent attack on a woman in a moving vehicle raises concerns about public safety on California highways and the need for improved response and prevention measures. The victim's quick thinking likely saved her life, but the incident highlights the dangers that some individuals face on the roads.

The details

According to the California Highway Patrol, the woman was stabbed while riding in a black 2017 Kia Sorento SUV traveling northbound on Highway 101 near Boronda Road shortly after midnight on Sunday. She was able to escape the moving vehicle and call for help. CHP and Salinas police officers found the woman and she was taken to a local hospital for treatment of multiple stab wounds.

  • The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Sunday, February 9, 2026.
  • The suspect, Evelio Ramirez Ruiz, was arrested by Salinas police on Sunday morning in an unrelated incident.

The players

Evelio Ramirez Ruiz

A 19-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, false imprisonment, attempted kidnapping, and aggravated mayhem in connection with the stabbing attack.

California Highway Patrol

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and worked with Salinas police to identify and arrest the suspect.

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What they’re saying

“This was a violent and disturbing attack, and the victim's actions likely saved her life.”

— Capt. Eric Zivic, CHP Coastal Division (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Ruiz remains in custody at the Monterey County Jail as the case proceeds through the criminal justice system. Authorities will likely continue investigating the incident to determine a motive and any other potential charges.

The takeaway

This attack highlights the need for greater safety measures and response protocols to protect individuals traveling on California's highways. The victim's quick thinking and the collaborative efforts of law enforcement helped prevent an even more tragic outcome, but more must be done to address violence on the roads.