Santa Monica Police Arrest Suspect in Downtown Stabbing Incident

Santa Monica, CA – October 16, 2024 – A 23-year-old man was arrested following a stabbing near 5th Court and Broadway in downtown Santa Monica, an area that has seen rising concerns over public safety. Police responded to the scene after reports of an individual in need of medical assistance and discovered a homeless man with severe stab wounds. The victim was quickly transported to a local hospital, where he remains in stable condition.

Authorities identified the suspect, a recent arrival to Santa Monica, and detained him shortly after the attack. The motive behind the stabbing is still under investigation, with law enforcement examining any potential links to prior minor offenses involving the suspect.

The police press release reads as follows: "On 10/16/24 at about 7pm, SMPD Officers responded to the 500 block of Broadway for a call of a bleeding man lying on the sidewalk. (Original Press Release)

Upon their arrival, officers discovered the victim of a stabbing. The homeless victim, who is a recent arrival to Santa Monica from Kentucky, was able to provide a general description of the suspect along with a possible first name. Through surveillance video and follow-up investigation, SMPD Detectives identified a suspect.

On 10/23/24, 23-year-old Damian Garcia was located and arrested for the assault. Garcia is also homeless and new to Santa Monica from Florida. At Garcia's arraignment on October 25th, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office filed one felony count of 245(a)(1) PC (Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Great Bodily Injury). Garcia is additionally being held on a fugitive warrant from Florida and will face extradition. He remains in custody of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

Garcia's criminal history includes Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Burglary to an Inhabited Dwelling, Vehicle Theft, Armed Robbery, and Resisting Arrest with Violence."

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Det. Ben Jenkins at (310) 458-4884, Sgt. Chad Goodwin at (310) 458-8931, or the Watch Commander desk 24 hours a day at (310) 458-8427.

This incident highlights ongoing challenges in addressing violence involving the city's vulnerable homeless population. City officials and community leaders have expressed concern about safety issues in busy areas, including around the downtown core, and are urging for strategies to improve public security. The Santa Monica Police Department continues to investigate as the city seeks solutions to enhance safety for all residents and visitors.