A man who police say punched an LA Metro ambassador in a seemingly unprovoked attack earlier this week has been arrested.
On Friday, the Los Angeles Police Department announced the arrest of 30-year-old Peter Pedroche, who is accused of punching the woman, leaving her with a swollen cheek and a chipped tooth.
Police say the unprovoked attack happened Thursday around 7:30 a.m. on the platform of the Little Tokyo Metro station.
The woman was treated at a local hospital and later released.
Police took over the investigation and immediately began searching the area for the suspect.
Around 4 p.m. Thursday afternoon, officers saw a man walking in the area of 5th and Olive streets who they say was wearing the same “unique clothing” as the suspect in the assault.
Pedroche was arrested and booked into jail where he’s being held on $50,000 bail. He faces possible charges for felony battery, police said.
A court date has not yet been set, jail records show.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact the LAPD Central Area Detectives at 213-996-1850. Anonymous tips can be made online or by calling 800-222-8477.
The LA Metro Ambassador program fully launched in 2023 with 300 employees trained to help riders navigate the system, answer questions, provide additional service for riders who need assistance and provide “extra eyes and ears” for LA Metro.