A 42-year-old San Jose man has died from severe head injuries sustained in a Sept. 29 assault at a VTA light rail station. The victim, who was pronounced dead on Wednesday, Oct. 8, was critically injured and hospitalized since the attack. Law enforcement has confirmed the suspect, Brandon Fryshaw, 23, is also being investigated in a separate transit attack at another VTA station. Authorities have reported that Fryshaw was initially arrested for attempted murder and is now under scrutiny for a second act of violence.
Deputies responded to the Gish VTA Light Rail Station just before midnight on Sept. 29, finding the man unconscious and suffering from severe trauma. The case has been transferred to the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office for review, with potential charges including homicide and attempted murder. Investigator Capt. Sugey Jaimez emphasized the department’s commitment to addressing violent crimes and ensuring public safety.
The incident follows the release of the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office 2024 Annual Statistics Report, which noted a slight increase in overall crime rates but a decline in violent crimes, including aggravated assaults and robberies. Sheriff Robert Jonsen highlighted the department’s efforts in transparency, public safety, and improvements in response times and recruitment diversity. While the violent crime rate in Santa Clara County is significantly lower than the state average, concerns remain about the safety and security of public transportation networks.
Additional information has surfaced regarding the second transit attack, which remains under investigation. Law enforcement is currently examining the suspect’s criminal history and potential motives, though details have not been disclosed. The victim’s family and community have expressed shock and concern over the incident, which has sparked discussions about the need for enhanced security measures at transit stations and the challenges of addressing violent crime in public spaces. Authorities continue to work closely with the district attorney’s office to determine the appropriate charges and next steps in the case.
As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement officials remain focused on ensuring accountability and public safety. The case underscores the ongoing challenges of combating violent crime and the need for continued community engagement and collaboration between law enforcement and local residents. The sheriff’s office has reiterated its commitment to transparency and innovation in addressing public safety concerns, with plans to release additional details as they become available.