A shocking surveillance video from Northgate train station in Seattle, Washington, shows a commuter narrowly escaping disaster when a stranger allegedly shoved him toward an approaching train on March 19, just before 6 p.m.

The Attack Unfolds

Peter Michael Walbrun stood on the platform, engrossed in articles on his phone, when he suddenly felt a forceful push from behind. The footage captures 26-year-old Elisio Melendez lurking near an elevator, peeking out to confirm the train’s approach. Dressed in a black hoodie and pants, Melendez lunged forward, propelling Walbrun toward the tracks.

Walbrun managed to steady himself on the platform edge and shoved his attacker back. A brief scuffle ensued before Melendez fled behind the elevator.

Investigation and Arrest

King County Sheriff’s Office detectives identified Melendez using video from a nearby Hampton Inn. They traced him to a local behavioral health facility and took him into custody on March 24 at King County Correctional Facility. He faces second-degree attempted murder charges with a $750,000 bond.

During questioning, Melendez claimed the figure in the video “maybe looked like him” or was “my twin that I don’t have.” He was arraigned on Tuesday, where a judge ordered a competency evaluation. Melendez has not yet entered a plea.

Prosecutor’s Statement and Background

Prosecuting Attorney Leesa Manion stated in charging documents, “The facts of this case are shocking and unquestionably demonstrate the extreme danger the defendant poses to the public.”

Melendez has no prior convictions. However, in 2019, he faced charges of second-degree assault and domestic violence for allegedly stabbing his sister; the case was dismissed in 2021 after a schizophrenia diagnosis rendered him incompetent to stand trial. He also faced a 2017 fourth-degree assault charge without conviction, and an active warrant exists since 2021 for failing to appear in court.