Suspect in Vicious Pasadena Metro Station Attack Set for Preliminary Hearing

Juan Pablo Flores, 33, is scheduled for a preliminary hearing Wednesday in connection with the brutal Metro station attack that left a woman with life-altering injuries almost one year ago to the day.

Flores will appear at 8:30 a.m. in Department H of the Pasadena Courthouse, facing charges of attempted murder and mayhem for an attack at the Allen Avenue Metro Station on Aug. 7, 2024.

Court documents reveal Flores allegedly attacked a woman at 5:30 a.m. at the elevated Allen Metro Station in the median of Interstate 210. Security camera footage shows Flores punching the victim multiple times, knocking her to the ground, and throwing her onto train tracks and into the freeway’s carpool lane.

The victim suffered severe injuries, including a broken nose, multiple cuts requiring staples and stitches, head bruising, broken bones, and potential long-term disfigurement. She requires family assistance and has been rehospitalized due to infections.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Transit Services Bureau arrested Flores 15 minutes after the attack at the intersection of Allen Avenue and Villa Street. He was charged on Aug. 12 with bail set at $2 million.

District Attorney George Gascón stated, “Our thoughts are with the victim and her loved ones as she begins her journey toward recovery following this horrific attack. No one should have to endure such brutality, and everyone deserves to go about their day without fear for their safety. We will not tolerate violence on our transit system and will continue holding those responsible fully accountable for their actions.”

County Supervisor Kathryn Barger expressed outrage at the time, saying, “I want to commend the transit deputies who responded quickly and apprehended the suspect.”

During his arraignment on Aug. 27, Flores pleaded not guilty. If convicted, he faces a potential life sentence.

Metro responded by implementing enhanced safety measures, including increased security presence, weapons detection pilot programs, and creating a Transit Community Public Safety Department.