Homeless man in Encino attacks Metro bus rider with wrench

Police arrested a homeless man for attacking a Metro bus rider with a wrench in Encino Tuesday afternoon.

The attack happened at about 2:05 p.m. near the intersection of Ventura Boulevard and Balboa Avenue, according to the Los Angeles Police Department's West Valley Division. Originally, the LAPD believed it was a stabbing. West Valley investigators said the suspect suffered from a "mental illness."

Metro said the suspect stole a cell phone from the victim before slamming the wrench into his chest. The victim did not need medical assistance or hospitalization.

Officers added they arrested one person. Metro said the suspect was arrested for assault and battery after he walked away from the bus. 

"Metro thanks the LAPD for its quick action to apprehend the suspect in this case," a spokesperson said in a statement.