LAS VEGAS — A man facing charges related to a series of stabbings on the Las Vegas Strip in 2022, which resulted in two fatalities and six injuries, has admitted guilt while also being deemed mentally ill on multiple counts, including murder and terrorism.

The attacks targeted individuals including performers dressed as showgirls and innocent tourists.

On Thursday, Yoni Barrios, 34, entered his guilty plea as part of a plea agreement with the prosecution, which allowed him to evade the death penalty, according to local reports.

In addition to murder and terrorism charges, Barrios also pleaded guilty but mentally ill to charges of attempted murder and battery. He is expected to receive a life sentence in prison without the chance of parole.

Scott Coffee, Barrios’ attorney, stated after the hearing that the plea deal acknowledges the significant role that mental illness played in driving Barrios’ actions, which included paranoia.

Reportedly, the unprovoked stabbings took place in October 2022 when Barrios attacked a group of showgirl performers near the Wynn Las Vegas hotel and casino, resulting in the death of one performer. Following this initial attack, he fled down the sidewalk, continuing to assault additional victims, as confirmed by police accounts.
Prior to the stabbings, authorities indicated that Barrios had asked to take a photograph with the performers. He was dressed in a chef’s long-sleeved white jacket, claiming to be a chef, and retrieved a knife from a suitcase, as detailed in police reports.
Some performers felt uneasy around him, with one even backing away. The police reported that Barrios believed the women were laughing at him and mocking his attire.
He was apprehended after a brief pursuit and is set to face sentencing in March.