Man Sentenced to Life for Stabbing 67‑Year‑Old Woman on Metro Train

The judge in Los Angeles County sentenced Elliot Tramal Nowden, 47, to life in prison without the possibility of parole on Friday. The sentence follows a conviction last month for stabbing Mirna Soza Arauz, a 67‑year‑old passenger, aboard a Metro train in Studio City. An additional eight‑year term was imposed for the robbery charge.

The Crime

The stabbing occurred in the early morning as the train, heading toward downtown Los Angeles, arrived at Universal/Studio City Station on Lankershim Boulevard near Universal Studios Hollywood. Private security officers working for Metro assisted Soza Arauz at the subway station while waiting for paramedics. The paramedics transported her to a hospital where she later died.

Court Decision

The judge’s ruling combined the murder conviction with the robbery charge, resulting in a life sentence without parole and an additional eight years. This dual sentencing reflects the severity of the crime and the intent to hold the defendant accountable for both acts.

Background of the Defendant

NBC4 Investigates reported that Nowden had been imprisoned for assault in a similar crime. He was also found guilty of attacking a train passenger in 2019 while on probation. Jail records and law‑enforcement officials confirmed that Nowden had been arrested several times before the 2024 stabbing.

Victim’s Family Response

Jose Roman Soza, the victim’s son, spoke to the judge through a Spanish interpreter. He said, “It was very painful to realize that she was murdered for the things she would give away.” He called his mother his best friend and explained that she had not returned home that morning to cook breakfast for him.

Son’s Emotional Testimony

“So she didn’t arrive that morning, I felt something on my chest,” Jose Roman Soza told the judge. He added that he called his sisters and later received a call from a detective. He also noted that he watches detective shows and “knew that this was something horrible and that (it) was going to be the most horrible day of my life.”

Son’s Appeal to Justice

Jose Roman Soza concluded, “I hope that justice falls on this monster and he never sees the sun any more.” His statement underscored the family’s desire for accountability and closure.

Daughter’s Statement

Nadia Cisne Soza, the victim’s youngest daughter, also referred to her mother as her best friend. She told the judge, “As long as my mother is happy in heaven, the murderer is going to be miserable on earth.” She urged the court to “put all the weight of justice on him.”

Another Daughter’s Perspective

Mirna Roman Soza, another daughter, joined a conference call with a Spanish interpreter. She said the family has had to live with her absence but remembers her daily. She told the defendant that he “took of the life of a person you didn’t need to steal anything from” and that she “would have given you anything.”

Defense Attorney’s Statement

After the hearing, K.C. Ma, the defendant’s attorney, informed the family that Nowden wanted them to know he was sorry for their loss. The statement was delivered in a formal court setting.

Summary of Legal Proceedings

The sentencing marked the culmination of a trial that examined evidence of a violent robbery and murder on public transportation. The judge’s decision reflects the seriousness of the offense and the impact on the victim’s family.

Key Takeaways

• Elliot Tramal Nowden receives life without parole for stabbing 67‑year‑old Mirna Soza Arauz on a Metro train.
• An additional eight‑year sentence was added for the robbery charge.
• The victim’s family delivered powerful testimonies highlighting the personal loss and demand for justice.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise on public transit and the severe legal consequences for violent crimes.