Santa Monica, CA — On the evening of Saturday, October 5, 2024, a Santa Monica police officer was stabbed outside the department’s headquarters, resulting in the fatal shooting of the suspect.
The incident took place at around 5:20 p.m. at 333 Olympic Drive, where the officer was gathering information from a resident on an unrelated matter. According to Lt. Erika Aklufi, a man in his 30s approached the officer and was told to wait while the officer continued the conversation.
Without warning, the suspect drew a knife from his clothing and attacked the officer, slashing and stabbing him. Despite his injuries, the officer retreated, drawing his service weapon. The assailant continued the attack, following the officer around the corner of the building. It was at this point that the officer discharged his weapon, fatally wounding the suspect.
Emergency medical aid was provided to the suspect at the scene, but he was pronounced dead by Santa Monica Fire Department paramedics. The officer, who sustained multiple stab wounds, was rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.
The identity of the suspect has not yet been released, and the wounded officer remains hospitalized. Santa Monica Police Chief Ramon Batista confirmed the details of the incident and noted that the officer’s quick actions helped prevent further escalation. The investigation is ongoing.