Ryan ChartrandA Cal Poly custodian hit a supervising custodian with his car on the morning of Jan. 6 and remains in jail on suspicion of attempted murder.
James Reynolds, a custodian at Cal Poly for more than 25 years, unsuccessfully attempted to run over his co-worker at about 4 a.m. that day for reasons that were unknown, police said.
The incident took place near the University Police Department building in the H4 parking lot in front of the Facilities Receiving Warehouse, building 70. Police said the victim heard Reynolds’ car approaching and jumped out of the way, but was still knocked to the ground. The victim then proceeded to get into his own vehicle, followed by Reynolds, until he arrived at the UPD station and reported the matter to the police.
Though Reynolds reportedly turned off his car lights to avoid being seen, UPD officers followed him and caught up to him on Grand Avenue.
UPD Chief Bill Watton referred to the arrest as “very uncomplicated” and added that Reynolds also had a 14-inch machete in his car.
Watton said the victim wasn’t hurt badly and only suffered bruises. The victim wished to remain anonymous and declined to comment.
“It’s certainly a scary situation,” Watton said. “I’ve been here five years and I haven’t seen anything like this.”
Reynolds was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and possession of a weapon – both felonies – and reckless driving. He was booked at the county jail, where he still remains on a $500,000 bail. His arraignment was scheduled for the morning of Jan. 16, but Watton said it had been postponed.
Tom Ramler, assistant director for Custodial Services, was not available for comment.