An older male transient stabbed another male transient dressed in women's clothing in Oceanside late Tuesday officials said.
Around 8:30 p.m., Oceanside Police were called to the Rodeway Inn at 1100 N. Coast Highway for a stabbing.
Initial reports indicated the suspect used a large knife to wound the victim several times in front of the motel.
Detectives say at that point several employees from a restaurant across the street as well as passersby held the suspect until officers arrived.
One witness was legally carrying a gun, which compelled the suspect to stop his actions, according to police.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene officials said. The suspect was placed in custody and taken to a nearby police station.
Officers are now looking at surveillance and trying to figure out a motive.