Man Kills His Mother in Front of His Brothers, on 12th Street North of Wilshire Blvd in Santa Monica

The Santa Monica Police Department has arrested a man in connection with the fatal stabbing of his mother early Saturday, Nov. 16.

According to SMPD, officers responded to a report of an aggravated assault at an apartment in the 1100 block of 12th Street around 5:30 a.m. Upon arrival, a man informed them that his brother had stabbed their mother multiple times.

"Officers located two male adults (brothers) and escorted them out of the apartment," said SMPD in a statement. "Inside, they found an elderly woman with multiple stab wounds to her upper body. Officers administered emergency aid until Santa Monica Fire Department paramedics arrived. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital but succumbed to her injuries en route."

The suspect, identified as 43-year-old Vernon Jeremiah Harris, lived in the apartment with his mother and two older brothers. Harris has no known criminal record but may have physical and developmental disabilities. The brother who contacted police also serves as a caregiver for both Harris and their mother. He reported waking up to his mother's screams and discovered Harris standing over her with a knife in her bedroom.

The third brother was not home at the time but arrived shortly after the incident to provide a statement to detectives.

A search warrant was executed at the residence, leading to the discovery of the weapon used in the attack. Forensics teams processed the scene for evidence.

Harris was subsequently booked and transported to Los Angeles County Jail, where he awaits his initial court appearance.

Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to reach out to Detective Jauregui at martin.jauregui@santamonica.gov, Sergeant Lozano at alfonso.lozano@santamonica.gov, or the Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427, available 24/7.