Suspect shot after stabbing officer in Santa Monica: police

A man was shot and killed after police said he stabbed a Santa Monica officer in an unprovoked attack Saturday night.

At approximately 5:21 p.m., an officer stood outside the Santa Monica police station and spoke to a citizen.

The suspect, who was just a man in his early 30s, approached the officer.

Authorities said the officer asked the man to wait his turn while he spoke to the other citizen. The suspect then reportedly pulled a large knife from his clothing and “slashed and stabbed the officer.”

The victim immediately backed away and armed himself with his weapon as the man reportedly followed him around a corner. At that point, the officer shot and fatally wounded the suspect, officials said.

The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. The officer was taken to hospital with stab wounds but is expected to survive.

“I cannot tell you enough how disappointed I am that this attack occurred on our streets without any provocation,” Santa Monica Police Chief Ramon Batista said at a news conference Saturday evening. “In Santa Monica, we pride ourselves on keeping our streets safe. Unfortunately, a series of very serious events have occurred in our city since this summer. Nonetheless, our officers will continue to be on site and ensure the public safety of our residents.”

The Santa Monica Police Department and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office will conduct an internal investigation into the incident.

Anyone with information about the case or suspect is asked to call the Watch Commander at 310-458-8427.

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