San Diego woman in custody after broad daylight stabbing of coffee shop employee in Kearny Mesa

Jessica Melgar is facing felony charges after allegedly stabbing a coffee shop employee in Kearny Mesa. Read the details of the bystander intervention and the victim's status.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 13, 2026, 10:01 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from ABC 10News San Diego and City News Service

A Violent Confrontation at High Noon

The San Diego Police Department has apprehended a suspect in a frightening midday attack at a local business. On Thursday at approximately 12 p.m., 39-year-old Jessica H. Melgar was reportedly seen clutching a knife and screaming outside a coffee shop in the 7400 block of Clairemont Mesa Boulevard. When an employee noticed the erratic behavior and attempted to lock the front doors to protect the patrons and staff, Melgar allegedly forced her way inside and initiated a physical struggle.

The Attack and Citizen Intervention

During the breach, the suspect reportedly used a five-inch foldable knife to attack the employee. According to San Diego Police Officer David O'Brien, the violence was interrupted by bystanders who acted quickly to intervene. Witnesses managed to tackle Melgar and hold her on the ground until law enforcement arrived. Officers recovered the weapon approximately two feet from where the suspect was being restrained on the floor.

Medical Status of the Victim

Paramedics arrived shortly after the suspect was secured to treat the injured employee. The victim sustained a four-inch-long laceration to his chest along with various scrapes during the struggle. He was transported to a nearby hospital for professional care. Police officials have confirmed that the injuries are considered non-life-threatening and the worker is expected to recover.