Carjacking, Police Pursuit Close Ocean Avenue at Colorado

The block of Ocean Avenue immediately North of the Santa Monica Pier was closed to traffic after a car was stolen at gunpoint from a civilian. The car was taken in the 2600 block of Ocean Avenue, then pursued by the Santa Monica Police Department to the 1500 block of Ocean Avenue.

"Please stay out of the area of the 1500 block of Ocean Ave until further notice," said a City of Santa Monica online advisory. Later police issued the following press release:

This morning at approximately 7:15 a.m., SMPD received a radio call for service of a carjacking just occurred at the 2600 block Ocean Front walk. The victim's vehicle was taken by force. The vehicle fled the area. A short time later, officers spotted the car and a pursuit ensued. The suspect crashed into a car on the road at the 1500 block of Ocean Avenue. Officers were able to pin the subject down and take him into custody. No injuries sustained to the victim or officers involved. The suspect had minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Suspect is a M/W early 30's. Booking charges to follow. -- Lt. Saul Rodriguez, Public Information Officer, SMPD

This incident is not related to the theft of a car Tuesday and it's pursuit to a fatal accident at Washington and La Cienega, police sources said.

The area around the pier is the highest crime area statistically in Santa Monica, which isn't too surprising since it's also the highest density area, with many thousands of visitors crowding onto and around the 100 year old Pier on any summer day. There is also a heavy police presence in and around the Pier. This is especially true since the Expo Line opened in May, bringing in more people than ever before.