Homeless Man Stabs Officer 4 Times at SMPD Headquarters, Causing the Officer to Draw his Weapon and Shoot Suspect Dead

Santa Monica police are currently investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred around 5 PM Saturday, October 5th, 2024, near the intersection of Olympic Drive and 4th Street. According to initial reports from scanner traffic, a Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) officer was stabbed by a homeless man, prompting the officer to respond by drawing his firearm and shooting the assailant.

The incident took place at the Santa Monica Police Department's headquarters, escalating quickly when the officer was attacked. The victim was stabbed 4 times as he tried to get away from the suspect on the East side of the Public Safety building, Chief Ramon Batista told reporters from KABC. Finally he drew his sidearm and fired at the suspect.

Emergency services responded to the scene, and the wounded officer was transported to a nearby hospital. Fortunately, medical personnel have indicated that the officer is expected to survive the injuries sustained during the altercation. The suspect died en route to a local hospital.

In the aftermath of the incident, local authorities have established several road closures while the investigation continues. Fourth Street between Broadway and Pico Boulevard, as well as Olympic Drive between Main Street and the I-10 Freeway on-ramp, are closed to traffic. Commuters are advised to use Lincoln Boulevard for access to the I-10 Freeway, as these closures are expected to remain in place until further notice.

File photo of onramp at Olympic and 4th Street. This is a file photo not taken the day of the incident.

The shooting has sparked concern within the community as details surrounding the assailant and the circumstances leading up to the stabbing are still under investigation. Law enforcement has not yet released the identity of the attacker or provided an update on their condition following the shooting. As the situation develops, the Santa Monica Police Department is expected to provide further information and updates to the public.