Son arrested on suspicion of attacking mom with hammer in East Los Angeles

EAST LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A son was arrested on suspicion of trying to kill his mother by repeatedly hitting her with a hammer while she slept in their East Los Angeles home.

Authorities received calls around 2:35 a.m. regarding reports of a suspect injuring a family member with a hammer. They headed to a home in the 3700 block of Whiteside Street and entered the residence.

Authorities found the suspect and a physical confrontation occurred. Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies suffered minor injuries during the struggle, but were able to subdue the man and arrest him.

A preliminary investigation revealed the victim was asleep in her bed when the man hit her with a hammer several times. Family members in the home woke up to the assault and tried to restrain the man before deputies arrived.

The woman was treated at the scene and taken to a hospital in critical condition. The suspect was identified as her son, 27-year-old Gustavo Gonzalez.

He was booked on suspicion of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon and mayhem.

A weapon was recovered at the scene. The investigation was ongoing.

Anyone with more information was asked to call the LASD East Los Angeles Station, Lt. Alvarez at (323) 264-4151. Those wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.