Santa Cruz Police Arrest Hells Angels Suspect

Santa Cruz police said a fight between four people broke out in the 100 block of Walnut Avenue at 2:30 a.m. on Saturday. When officers arrived, the found one person, who said earlier he was talking with three males. The victim told police he asked the guys for a ride home. Officers said a man named John Smith punched the victim in the face and called a racial slur.

Officers said Smith later got into a truck with a camper shell and left the area. When police found the truck a few blocks away, officers said Smith and one other occupant were wearing clothing indicating membership with the Hells Angels. A 9mm pistol was found in the back of the truck, along with a knife.

Officers arrested Smith for battery, brandishing and possession of a firearm and hate crime.