Assailant with Scissors Arrested at San Luis Obispo Park

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San Luis Obispo police officers arrested a 30-year-old man on Tuesday evening who was threatening another park-goer with scissors and a large rock at Laguna Lake Park. The suspect, Jyerick Nebeker, refused to comply with officers' commands, ran away, and jumped into the lake before being apprehended. Nebeker was charged with assault, resisting arrest, battery on an officer, and harming a police dog.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the need for public safety vigilance in San Luis Obispo's parks and trails, where isolated confrontations can quickly escalate. It also raises questions about mental health resources and de-escalation training for law enforcement when dealing with volatile situations involving weapons.

The details

According to witnesses, Nebeker threatened a 51-year-old man with a pair of scissors and then picked up a large rock and threw it at the victim, though it missed. Nebeker then picked up the rock again and began to follow the victim. When police arrived, Nebeker refused to comply with officers' commands and ran away, jumping into Laguna Lake. A sheriff's K-9 went after Nebeker in the reeds, but Nebeker struck the dog. Officers then used a rubber baton projectile and pepper spray to take Nebeker into custody.

• The incident occurred shortly after 5 p.m. on Tuesday, February 26, 2026.
• Nebeker was transported to a local hospital for treatment of a dog bite and then booked into San Luis Obispo County Jail.

What’s next

Nebeker is being held without bail and the case is ongoing. The judge will determine if he should be released on bail at a future hearing.