Casino mass stabbing suspect identified as disturbing mugshot released

The knife-wielding casino staffer who allegedly slashed five coworkers at a luxury California resort has been charged and identified by police — as his creepy mugshot was released.

Joseph Naugle, 22, faces attempted murder charges, with other charges likely forthcoming in the shocking Wednesday attack at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln that left bloodied victims sprawled among the slot machines as paramedics tended to their injuries.

A man is in custody after five people were stabbed at Thunder Valley Casino in Placer County on Wednesday night. KCRA

Mugshot of Joseph Naugle.
Joseph Naugle’s mugshot.

Naugle was taken into custody within minutes of deputies arriving. He’s being held in a local jail.

One victim was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while the four others were treated at the scene by Thunder Valley emergency personnel and Cal Fire, authorities said.

None of the victim’s injuries were considered life-threatening.

“At this point in the investigation, it appears the suspect knew all five victims. No additional suspects are outstanding. And there is no outstanding threat to the public,” the Placer County Sheriff’s office said in an update on Facebook.


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Naugle, who was reportedly still dressed in his kitchen apron when arrested, allegedly carried out the gruesome attack at the Dos Coyotes Border Cafe inside the casino.

Thunder Valley Casino Resort was not evacuated and remained open Wednesday night, while the restaurant was closed following the stabbing.

The casino referred The California Post to the sheriff’s office for comment.

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