Santa Monica police officer attacked in unprovoked knife attack outside police station

Mayor calls for urgent public safety measures in social media statement

According to a press release, one of the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) officers was the victim of an unprovoked knife attack on Saturday, October 5th. The shocking incident occurred right in front of the police station at around 5:21 p.m.

The officer was gathering information from a resident about an unrelated call when he was confronted at the entrance to the station by a man in his 30s. According to police, the officer asked the newcomer to wait while he spoke to the resident. Without warning, the man pulled out a knife and attacked the officer, slashing and stabbing him.

The officer immediately retreated and drew his service weapon while the attacker continued the attack. The officer walked around the corner of the building where an officer-involved shooting occurred, according to the release.

SMPD officers provided medical aid to the suspect until Santa Monica Fire Department paramedics arrived, but the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office is handling the case and the Santa Monica Police Department is conducting an internal investigation to ensure proper procedures are followed. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office will also investigate the incident.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to contact the Watch Commander, who is available 24 hours a day, at (310) 458-8427.

SMPD posted an update on the officer’s condition on social media Sunday: “We are pleased to announce that our officer has been released from the hospital and is now home and focused on recovery. “We are all grateful for his commitment to protecting our community and will do everything we can to help him and his family in the hard work of recovery from this attack.

“This has been a challenging time, but the unwavering support of our residents has reminded us of the strength of unity. Our community thrives when we come together, and your encouragement has been a crucial part of the healing process. As we continue to support each other, we reaffirm our commitment to working hand in hand for a safer and stronger neighborhood. Together we are more than a community – we are a team. Thank you for standing by our side.”

Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock also released a video statement on social media on Sunday, saying, “One of Santa Monica’s finest officers was placed in an untenable position in front of our public safety facility on Saturday afternoon. Our veteran police officer was repeatedly attacked and stabbed in front of the city’s symbol of commitment to our community safety. Our officer had to defend himself against an attacker who did not obey repeated orders to stop his attack. My thoughts and prayers go out to our officer, his family and our entire police department for his speedy recovery.”

Brock added: “This tragic incident demonstrates the repeated calls from Santa Monica residents for an urgent commitment from all city leaders to prioritize the safety of all of our residents and visitors, regardless of their age.” From our children to our seniors we ALL safe streets in Santa Monica. We cannot continue to tolerate the lack of lawlessness caused by mental illness, substance abuse, and lack of punishment in our county that continues to raise legitimate fears among the good residents of our city. This has to STOP NOW!”