CARLSBAD — The Carlsbad Police Department has arrested a 17-year-old male on suspicion of fatally stabbing Lisa Thorborg last month at Hosp Grove Park, law enforcement officials said.
According to Lt. Justin Jackowski, the suspect was arrested Monday evening on the 2900 block of Ocean Street in Carlsbad. Police are withholding his name as the suspect is a juvenile.
Jackowski said the boy is a Carlsbad resident and not a transient.
“We understand that the community has been on edge since that tragic day in November when Lisa was found on Hosp Grove Trail,” said Investigations Lt. Jason Jackowski. “Our unwavering mission has been to find the suspect for Lisa, her family and the community of Carlsbad.”
Thorborg, 68, had recently moved to Carlsbad from Portland, Ore., according to statements from her family. She was walking along Hosp Grove Trail East on the morning of Nov. 23 when she was stabbed to death, according to police.
Derek Andre, Thorborg’s son-in-law, said in a statement to The Coast News the family is grateful and overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the community.
Andre also thanked the CPD for its continual efforts to make an arrest, noting working with the department was an “overwhelmingly” positive experience as the family was treated with care and respect throughout the duration of the investigation.
“Our family moved here with Lisa just six short months before her tragic death, and in a year dominated by COVID, there has not been much opportunity to meet our new neighbors and make friends,” Andre said. “Since the shocking news of Lisa’s death, however, there has been an endless outpouring of kindness and generosity that literally brings us to tears and warms our hearts. From the organization of the ‘Finish Lisa’s Walk’ event in Hosp Grove to the many meals, flowers, and gifts that we have received – we want you to know that we feel so loved and supported by this incredible community.”
The killing occurred between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., but police were informed of a man spotted in the area during the time. However, Jackowski declined to get into specifics about the case citing the need to protect the ongoing investigation and potential prosecution.
Jackowski said the suspect will be booked late on Dec. 14 and it will be up to the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office whether to prosecute the suspect as an adult.
