A man is being sought by authorities in California following an alleged attack with a samurai-style sword at a party. Jonathan Bays, 41, reportedly attempted to kill another individual at Creekside Apartments in Mariposa on Saturday, injuring the victim in multiple areas including the wrist, hand, head, and shoulder, according to Sheriff Jeremy Briese. After the incident, Bays fled the scene and was last seen walking on a trail leading to a jail. He is considered armed and dangerous.
Sheriff Briese described the incident as isolated, stemming from a dispute among individuals at the party. The victim was transported by helicopter to a nearby hospital. All individuals present at the gathering were reportedly using methamphetamine and other drugs. Bays, a transient from Idaho, has an active parole warrant from that state and has a prior conviction for sexual battery of a minor. He is described as 5’11” tall, weighing 180 lbs, and was last seen wearing a black sweater, black shoes, a camo-style hat, and tan pants. The Mariposa County Sheriff's Office is utilizing helicopters and K-9 units in the search for Bays, who remains at large as of Wednesday. Authorities are urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the Mariposa County Sheriff's Office.