Police Say Dispute Over Cigarette Led to Tire Iron Attack

In a dispute over a cigarette, a man allegedly bashed another man in the head with a tire iron in Pasadena Wednesday evening, authorities said.

Tariq Mohamed Alatas, 38, of Los Angeles was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon following the alleged attack, which took place just before 7 p.m. in the 100 block of East Glenarm Street, according to Pasadena police and Los Angeles County booking records.

Witnesses called police after a man with a head wound ran to a gas station asking for help, said Pasadena police Lt. Pete Hettema. Officers encountered a 33-year-old Pasadena man suffering from a 2-inch-long gash to his head. He was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Officers learned the victim had approached Alatas and asked him for a cigarette, the lieutenant said.

Alatas refused and the victim became upset, kicking Alatas’ car, according to Hettema. He then started walking away.

“[Alatas] came from behind the victim and struck him on the head and shoulder with a tire iron,” Hettema said. The victim ran to seek help and the suspect fled.

Police found a car and man matching the description provided by the victim around the corner in the 1000 block of South Arroyo Parkway, Hettema said. He was taken into custody, and a foot-long tire iron was taken as evidence.

Alatas was released from custody on a bond within hours of his arrest, according to county booking records.