Public Safety
Ventura County seeks witnesses in 2017 Simi Valley masked attack
Investigators released a new public appeal after one defendant was arrested and charged; authorities say other participants have not been identified.
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office asked witnesses and possible additional victims to come forward Friday as investigators continue examining a September 21, 2017, attack on a woman walking to work on Galena Avenue in Simi Valley.
Prosecutors allege that a group of men concealed their identities with masks from the movie “Scream” and used a knife during the attack. The woman called 911 after the group fled, but the investigation eventually went cold.
Public appeal issued: October 23, 2026
Incident date: September 21, 2017
Location: Galena Avenue, Simi Valley
Investigator: Yumi Kirk, (805) 477-1638
One defendant charged; investigation continues
The district attorney’s office said Ricardo Jimenez-Garcia was identified as a suspect and arrested September 9. Charges related to the attack have been filed, although the official release did not specify the counts or announce a plea.
Investigators want to hear from anyone who witnessed the attack, recognizes the defendant or believes they experienced a similar incident. ABC7 reported that authorities also released new photographs as part of the appeal.
The allegations remain unproven. Jimenez-Garcia is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Official release: Ventura County District Attorney — October 23, 2026 →
Original reporting: ABC7 Los Angeles — October 23, 2026 →