Old East Dallas, December 9, 2025
A man was fatally stabbed in the 4800 block of Gaston Avenue in Old East Dallas, with the suspect, Cleto Banda, arrested and facing murder charges. The victim died at a local hospital after being stabbed in the neck. This incident is part of a troubling trend of violence in the area, causing concern among residents about safety. Authorities continue to investigate, urging anyone with information to come forward.
Dallas, Texas – A man was fatally stabbed in Old East Dallas on Monday morning, leading to the arrest of a 33-year-old suspect, Cleto Banda, who now faces a murder charge.
At approximately 9 a.m. on December 8, 2025, Dallas police responded to reports of a stabbing in the 4800 block of Gaston Avenue. Upon arrival, officers discovered that Banda had stabbed an unidentified man in the neck. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Banda was apprehended nearby and taken into custody without incident. As of Monday night, he remained in the Dallas County jail with no bond set. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not released further details about the incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Joann Castillo at 214-671-4739 or [email protected].
This tragic event is not isolated; it adds to a series of violent occurrences in the Old East Dallas area in recent months. Residents have been increasingly concerned about safety, as highlighted by a violent incident in September where a 50-year-old man was beheaded with a machete following an argument at a local motel. The suspect in that case, 37-year-old Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, was arrested and charged with capital murder. Similarly, in October, a 62-year-old man was fatally stabbed in Deep Ellum, a neighborhood adjacent to Old East Dallas. These incidents underscore the importance of community vigilance and active reporting of suspicious activities to local authorities.
The resilience of the small business community in this neighborhood can serve as a beacon of hope. Where entrepreneurs strive to create a vibrant local economy, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and engage with law enforcement, contributing to a safer environment for both businesses and individuals alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in Old East Dallas on December 8, 2025?
A man was fatally stabbed in the 4800 block of Gaston Avenue. The suspect, Cleto Banda, 33, was arrested and charged with murder.
Who is the suspect in the stabbing?
The suspect is Cleto Banda, a 33-year-old man who was apprehended near the crime scene.
What is known about the victim?
The victim’s identity has not been released by authorities. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Have there been other violent incidents in Old East Dallas recently?
Yes, in September 2025, a 50-year-old man was beheaded with a machete at a local motel. In October 2025, a 62-year-old man was fatally stabbed in Deep Ellum, a neighborhood adjacent to Old East Dallas.
What should residents do to stay safe?
Residents are encouraged to stay informed, report any suspicious activities to local authorities, and remain vigilant to help maintain safety in the community.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 4800 block of Gaston Avenue, Old East Dallas |
| Time | Approximately 9 a.m., December 8, 2025 |
| Victim | Unidentified male, transported to hospital, later died from injuries |
| Suspect | Cleto Banda, 33, arrested and charged with murder |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing, no further details released |
| Contact Information | Detective Joann Castillo at 214-671-4739 or [email protected] |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
