88 Year Old Man Apparently Murdered in the 2300 Block of 34th Street, Santa Monica

The death of an 88 year old John Hautz at his home on 34th Street, is being investigated as a homicide.

While the death of an 88 year old is not generally considered suspicious, this one is. "There are specific details that I can not disclose at this time," said Lt. Saul Rodriguez, SMPD's Public Information Officer. "The investigation is on-going. I can confirm there were several indicators and trauma to the decedent's body that led the investigation in that direction. The Coroner's examination confirmed that belief."

The SMPD released the following on Wednesday:

The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) is seeking the public's assistance with any information or witnessess related to a suspicious death that occurred in Santa Monica. In addition, SMPD is seeking to locate the next of kin or anyone that may have been in communication with the deceased.

The decedent has been identified as John Hautz, an 88 year-old male from Santa Monica.

On January 1, 2018 at about 1:04 p.m., SMPD Officers responded to a radio call for service in the 2300 block of 34th Street regarding an elderly male who appeared to be unconscious inside of his residence. Officers made entry into the residence and discovered the man was deceased.

Victim: Hautz, John

SMPD Detectives were notified and conducted a thorough investigation of the crime scene. A preliminary investigation revealed possible suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Hautz. Following a medical examination by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office, the death has been classified as a homicide. The investigation is on-going.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Santa Monica Police Department at (310) 458-8449. Those who wish to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.