A video recap of the 2025 Haunted Heats Surf Contest host by Bay Street Boards. A geat turnout for the return of this contest, with a raffle that raised money for Los Courage Camps
Haunted Heats Halloween Surf Contest
A video recap of the 2025 Haunted Heats Surf Contest host by Bay Street Boards. A geat turnout for the return of this contest, with a raffle that raised money for Los Courage Camps
UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital's 25th Annual Party On The Pier
UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital celebrates 25 years of fun for a cause with its milestone 25th Annual Party on the Pier, returning to the Santa Monica Pier's Pacific Park on Sunday, November 2, from 10AM to 2PM PT. This beloved family-friendly fundraiser brings together celebrity guests—including Heidi Montag & Spencer Pratt, Whitney Port, Raini & Rico Rodriguez, Anna Maria Perez de Tagle-Kline, Nathan Kress, and Christine Chiu—for a day of joy, rides, games, and giving back. Guests can enjoy unlimited Pacific Park rides, carnival games with Mattel toy prizes, photo activations, therapy animals, and more, all benefiting UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital and its mission to provide world-class pediatric care.
Cost: Admission is FREE
For more info, Click Here.
Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.
New Pumptrack Being Built In LA
A new pumptrack is currently under construction in Highland Park at Arroyo Seco Park. It is a pre-fabricated concrete track being installed. No word on the opening date yet. The park is off the 110 Freeway in South Pasadena.
Hit-&-Run Kills 2 In Santa Monica
On Friday, October 24, 2025, at approximately 9:15 p.m., the Santa Monica Police Department responded to reports of a severe traffic collision involving a vehicle and multiple pedestrians in the 1300 block of Wilshire Boulevard.
Upon arrival, officers located four victims on the south sidewalk. The Santa Monica Fire Department responded and transported two individuals to a local hospital with injuries. They are expected to survive. Tragically, two victims were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Preliminary information indicates the involved vehicle was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Wilshire Boulevard when it drove onto the sidewalk and struck the four pedestrians. The involved vehicle remained at the scene; however, the driver fled on foot prior to officers’ arrival and remains outstanding.
The suspect is described as a Black male, approximately 6 feet tall, last seen wearing a red hat, a black sweater, and black shoes.
The Santa Monica Police Department’s Major Accident Response Team (MART) is leading this criminal investigation. Wilshire Boulevard between 14th Street and Euclid Avenue was closed for several hours as investigators processed the scene.
“We recognize the gravity of this tragedy and the impact it has on our community,” said Interim Chief Darrick Jacob. “Our investigators are working tirelessly to identify and locate the suspect responsible, and our hearts are with the families of the victims who are experiencing unimaginable loss.”
For more news, updates and traffic conditions on PCH and other local beachside roads, Click Here.
Volley-Ween 2025
Join us for the 4th Annual Santa MoniCARES Volley-Ween Tournament and Fundraiser on Wednesday, October 29th, 2025 for a fun afternoon of games, food, friends and supporting a great cause!
Enjoy entertainment, a tasty meal, quenching beverages, a friendly volleyball tournament, a Halloween costume contest and more at Perry’s Beach Cafe & Rentals (2400 Ocean Front Walk). Buy tickets for yourself or your 2, 4 or 6-person team to attend the mixer, play in the volleyball tournament, enjoy delicious bites and have a scarily good time in the sand! Do you have to play volleyball (or be good at it) to come? No way! You can come just for the mixer, or you can participate in the volleyball tournament at any skill level. All proceeds will go towards Santa MoniCARES and its charities.
For more info, Click Here.
Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.
Third Street Promenade Cinema Sunday - Beetlejuice
Gather with friends at the sea of Pretty in Pink picnic tables (we’ll have music playing before your arrival, so you can grab a drink and a bite from your favorite local restaurant). Then settle in beneath the stars for Cinema Nights — a free movie series. (We’ll have NA for when you want the hangout to last longer.)
🎬 Champagne & Cinema, taking place outside of UGO on Santa Monica Blvd.
→ Movie begins at sunset
→ Third Street Promenade, 1400 block
Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.
Spooky Splash at Santa Monica Swim Center
a night of thrills and chills at the Santa Monica Swim Center! Dive into our Floating Pumpkin Patch, brave the Sharks Haunted House, and test your skills on the Floating Obstacle Course. Enjoy Spooky Flicks, arts & crafts, treats, and more. Don't miss out on this family-friendly event packed with fun activities, food trucks, and recreational swimming!
Ticket required for entry and are nonrefundable.
For more info, Click Here.
Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.
Drop Zone LA Surf Magazine- December 2015 - Look Through
Looking through the December 2014 issue of now gone suf magazine Drop Zone LA, a magazine that was all about the Los Amgeles surf culture. It was a free magazine that lasted about 2 years in print form.
This video is from our partnered Youtube Channel: Vintage Skate Snow Surf Stuff. All kinds of old steboarding, surfing and snowboarding magazines and catalogs are being posted on that channel.
PAUSE to stop the video to read the text.
Homeless Lady Clashes With Venice Surfers Over Showers
Just another day on the beavhes of Los Angelesa, a homeless lady blocks the showers and has issues with surfers at the Venice Pier showers.
Marina Spooktacular
There’s fun and scares for all ages, but the frights intensify as night falls over Burton Chace Park in Marina del Rey during this two-day festival.
Dates and Hours:
Saturday, October 25 | 4:00–10:00 p.m.
Sunday, October 26 | 4:00–10:00 p.m.
Location: Burton Chace Park – 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Ages: Activities for all ages & scare levels!
Cost: Admission is FREE
For more info, Click Here.
Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.
LAs Biggest Halloween College Block Party - Santa Monica
Welcome to LA's Biggest Ever Halloween College Block Party! Get ready for a night of epic fun at the 3rd Street Promenade. Join us for a spooktacular evening filled with music, dancing, and costume contests. This is THE event of the season you don't want to miss! UCLE VS USC doesn't just happen on the field. Now add PEPPERDINE, LOYOLA, CSU & more for a massive showdown! Grab your friends, put on your best costume, and get ready to party of the year!
For more info, Click Here.
Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.
Trick Or Treat Downtown Santa Monica
Ready for a trick-or-treating adventure in Downtown Santa Monica?
On the 1200 Block of Third Street Promenade (between Arizona & Wilshire), join us for a Monster Mash for all ages! Dogs are more than welcome to join the fun too (and hopefully wearing costumes of their own...)
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Friday, October 31, 2025
The party will include :
Kid-friendly costumed characters
Mini Pumpkin Patch - Pick your FREE pumpkin! (first come, first served)
Pumpkin decorating
Appearances by special guests!
Games
Face painting
Photo ops
Arts & Crafts
Free treats, stickers, and tattoos
And more!
Classic VW Car Show On Main Street
As part of the Day of the Dog Festival, the Westside VW Club's Classic VW Show on Main Street in Santa Monica.
3 Teens Stabbed At Venice Beach - Video
New, clearer video of the chaotic brawl at punk rock show hreld on Venice Beach where 3 teens were stabbed
The brawl started when the rooler skaters because the roler skaters were upset that the punk rock show was interferring with thier music. Even after moving further away, it was not even to please the roller skaters. So it became a pissing contest over whose music could over power the others.
It turned violent when one of the roller skaters got too closssee to the mosh pit and turned his back to catch his bike that his partner tipped over, when he did that, He was accidentally bumped into by one of the punks who was dancing. So he turned around, and went after him, hiting him in thr back of the head. That's when all hell breaks loose from both parties.
Trump Supporters Attend No Kings Rally In Santa Monica
Intense scene develops as a couple of Trump Supports visit the No Kings Rally in Santa Monica
Malibu Declares Local Emergency As Wildfire Conditions Worsen
On Monday, September 29, the Malibu City Council declared a local emergency in response to worsening wildfire conditions. The Council unanimously approved the declaration after live fuel moisture levels in the Santa Monica Mountains dropped below 65%, which is the threshold the City has adopted for declaring an emergency. A live fuel moisture of 60% is considered the “critical” threshold where wildfires spread faster, grow larger, and pose greater risks to lives, property, and the environment.
Declaring a local emergency is an important proactive safety measure. It allows the City to expedite the removal of homeless encampments located in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Normally, state law requires a lengthy notice period before any encampment removals. The emergency declaration shortens that timeline to one day, enabling faster action in high fire-risk areas while ensuring outreach teams connect individuals with shelter and services. Cooking fires in encampments pose a particular danger, as open flames can quickly ignite dry vegetation. Since 2021, the City has responded to more than 30 encampment fires in Malibu.
“As we continue to recover from the most devastating fire in our City’s history, declaring a local emergency is an important and proactive step to reduce wildfire risk and protect lives, homes, and our community,” said Malibu Mayor Marianne Riggins. “We are stepping up enforcement if there is illegal activity, especially fires, but we lead with compassion. Our first priority is always getting people housed and connected to the resources they need.”
The City continues to prioritize engagement through the City’s Homeless Outreach Team operated by The People Concern, as well as the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department’s Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST), ensuring that enforcement actions are accompanied by offers of support, services, and relocation assistance. In all cases, the City and Sheriff outreach teams will offer housing support and services.
“Even in the midst of an emergency, the City remains committed to connecting individuals in need with resources, shelter, and support through our dedicated outreach teams,” said Malibu Public Safety Director Susan Duenas. “Same-day shelter placements are available through the County’s Emergency Centralized Response Center and will be offered to everyone our teams engage with. This balanced approach allows us to advance wildfire prevention and public safety, while treating those experiencing homelessness with dignity and compassion.”
Malibu’s approach to homelessness has yielded measurable results. The 2025 Homeless Count shows Malibu’s unhoused population has declined to 21 individuals and 25 total dwellings (tents, cars, RVs, vans, makeshift shelters), the lowest number since the City started tracking in 2016, down from 69 in 2024, 71 in 2023, 81 in 2022, and 157 in 2021.
In partnership with The People Concern, the City continues to successfully connect individuals with permanent housing, interim placements, and family reunification services. The Outreach Team made 72 housing placements in 2024, 51 in 2023, 67 in 2022, and 22 in 2021. The City also proactively removes encampments year-round to address wildfire, public safety, public health, and environmental concerns. Working alongside the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Malibu cleared 44 encampments in 2024, up from 29 in 2023.
The declaration will remain in effect for the duration of the hazardous fire season, subject to periodic review by the City Council.
ICE Raids Santa Monica Car Wash
On Friday, Octobner 17th, at around 10:14AM, people witnessed an immigration raid at the car wash on 25th St and Pico in SWanta Monica. It has been reportd that 2 workers were taken away by ICE agents, as well as a lady from Gilbert's Restuarant. 20 immigratation officer were said to have been there.
The City of Santa Monica has released a statement:
The city is aware that federal immigration agents executed operations at a car wash and possibly other locations in Santa Monica on Oct. 17 and detained several individuals who were working. We understand that these actions have caused anxiety and uncertainty in the community, and we take them very seriously.
We stand with everyone in Santa Monica who is concerned, fearful, or grieving. We are committed to ensuring that no one feels isolated, and to doing all that is within our power to protect dignity, fairness, and inclusion.
The city is taking immediate action to do what we can to support the individuals and families impacted by today’s action.
That includes:
Coordinating with legal aid and immigrant rights organizations to provide support and resources Offering information about rights, legal representation, and community services Facilitating access to social, health, and economic support for those impacted Advocating against indiscriminate or unjustified federal immigration operations that harm our community
The city of Santa Monica does not engage in immigration enforcement. Santa Monica Police Department does not participate in raids, arrests, or detentions based on immigration status. Our priority remains public safety and maintaining trust with all residents, regardless of immigration status.
Surfing Wlishire Blvd in Escape From LA - Tony Hawk Surfs For Kurt Russell.
THROWBACK THURSDAY: The surfing scene, along with a behind-the-scenes clip from the 1996 action film, Escape From LA. A tsnuami hits and sends a big wave down Wilshire Blvd, The surfing stunt doubles were actually 2 professional skateboarders. Tony Hawk surfed the scene for Kurt Russell while and Chris Miller doubled Peter Fonda.
Santa Monica's Halloween Haunted House Spooktacular Daytime Tour
Checking out the Carlson Family Halloween Haunted House Spooktacular during the afternoon.
Daisy The Venice Healer Update
An update with Daisy the Venice Healer , she tells us about her recent skateboarding acident where she got a concussion, her upcoming pregnancy, her boyfriends and more. Then she shows us her new garden and heads over to the drum circle.
Click Here for more Stories about Daisy the Venice Healer
Malibu To Make Roundabouts On PCH
The City of Malibu has proposed two quick-build roundabouts on PCH/State Route 1 (SR-1) in coordination with Caltrans. This pilot project will install temporary roundabouts at PCH intersections with Encinal Canyon Road and El Matador Beach Road. The project aims to calm traffic, improve pedestrian safety, and add dedicated bike lanes to help assess the feasibility of permanent roundabouts.
The City of Malibu, in coordination with Caltrans, is advancing a quick-build pilot project currently in the Project Initiation Document (PID) phase. The project proposes the temporary installation of roundabouts at two key intersections along PCH: Encinal Canyon Road and El Matador Beach Road. The intent is to improve safety by slowing vehicle speeds, enhancing pedestrian crossings and reducing crash severity.
The corridor will be reconfigured from a four-lane roadway to two single-lane roundabouts with dedicated bike lanes, pedestrian refuge areas and buffered parking. Community feedback gathered during the pilot will help determine the feasibility of permanent installations at these and other locations along the corridor.
The purpose of the project is to improve safety and efficiency for all users of PCH by placing the roundabouts at both intersections. This will reduce vehicle speeds, create safer conditions for pedestrian crossings and provide them safe refuge and improve visibility.
The existing conditions between Encinal Canyon Road and El Matador State Beach consist of four travel lanes (two in each direction) with a two-way left turn lane, and a 55 mph speed limit. It creates an unsafe condition for pedestrian activity and vehicular turning movements at the two locations. The roundabouts are intended to improve safety for people walking, biking and driving. This will be achieved by redesigning PCH at these intersections to reduce vehicle lanes from two to one, which decreases crossing distance and overall speed of vehicles in the area. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026.
For more news, updates and traffic conditions on PCH and other local beachside roads, Click Here.
Former Co-Worker Of Palisades Fire Suspect Speaks Out Saying Media Is Wrong
A person wishing to remain anonymous has posted online claiming to have worked with Jonathan Rinderknecht, the suspect charged with the Palisades Fire. Here is what was written:
I knew the Pacific Palisades arsonist and the media is wrong about him.
"I don’t know where to start with this. I’m not usually active on reddit but i’m having a bad day and I can’t get this off my mind.
I can provide some limited proof if needed… screenshots of a conversation. Proof I worked at a specific restaurant. But that’s all I have.
I’d like to remain anonymous.
We weren’t best friends. We were coworkers at a high volume restaurant. From what he’s told me personally, Jonathan has worked at multiple very well respected restaurants in the LA area. Fine dining. Maybe he was just talking … I don’t know.
He wasn’t just some “random uber driver from Florida” … I thought he lived in California/ the LA area for a WHILE. From what I know, he was doing well for himself for an unknown amount of time.
He was fired from some fancy job for one reason or another, and I met him at a high volume casual restaurant. I’d say he seem depressed and like his life was possibly going downhill. But nothing too dramatic. Didn’t get too personal.
Again, we weren’t best friends but we spent a lot of time together due to work. We got along well.
In personality, he was one of the most type A, meticulous people i’ve ever met. He was intentional with everything he did. He was a fine dining server through and through. He even had his own little special tools that he’d bring into this casual setting. It was to the point that people laughed about it. People LAUGHED about how meticulous, intentional, specific, he was about every detail because no one was asking him to do that in such a casual environment.
He’d hand-sew his uniform. No one else did that.
He was smart. He’d often tell stories about what it’s like to deal with the richest of the rich. I’m talking Dubai politicians. How they actually treat people behind close doors. He never talked about fire. 😂 … but the stories he’d tell about being a servant for the rich line up with the ChatGPT images he generated that are all over the news right now. I probably can’t legally say that he was saying things that suggested a motive. I won’t say i’m sure of that. I met him 3 years ago. I have zero proof that there is correlation between our conversations and his actions.
But I know he’s not some “dumb young kid” … he’s not some type of frat bro or anything like that. I know he didn’t “play with fireworks in a dry area” like SOME news outlets are saying because it’s been disproven. And it’s NOT his personality to do so in the first place. I personally couldn’t see him getting overly excited about a holiday or fireworks to begin with. But again, im just someone who spent a good amount of time with him at work. Not a girlfriend, close friend, or a family member.
I can say when I knew him, he worked out every day and he was ALWAYS clean shaven with a nice haircut. I didn’t even recognize him with his new look.
Some people thought he was creepy or unlikable. No one that I know of saw him as threatening.
Some are describing him as innocent, shy, and friendly in a way that I also don’t feel matches the personality I interacted with. He was nice, sure. But in my experience, he wasn’t the type of guy to show much emotion or get too excited about much at all. I guess he was serious and kind of stoic.
I do feel that he’s being labeled in a certain way due to race. But that’s just my opinion.
Personally, im feeling pretty bad because I lost the best job i’ve ever had due to the Pacific Palisades fire. I don’t want to make it seem like losing a job is as bad as losing a home. But I do personally feel like this tragedy ruined my life.
I’ve sobbed my eyes out many times over this.
And come to find out, the cause is not a stranger or a natural disaster. It’s a guy i’ve spent a lot of time with.
I was unemployed for months, and I’ve been struggling for this entire year. It’s been like a horrible and constant game of catch up.
I honestly feel like an idiot, like I should have really thought about why some people saw him as creepy and unlikable.
I feel like an idiot, I didn’t initially recognize his face on the news until someone texted me about it.
I feel like an idiot, every day I was spending time with the guy who was gonna ruin my life 3 years later.
But I know i’m not stupid when I say the media is wrong about this guy.
I’m very sure about what i’m saying. And although i’d like to remain anonymous, and i’m sure experiences from 3 years ago won’t hold up very much as a testament of his character … I did decide that I would like to share my opinion anyway. I thought it might mean something to some people. Don’t know."
No Kings Rally In Santa Monica This Weekend
Saturday, October 18
12 – 3pm PDT
Palisades Park
Ocean Ave at Montana Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90401
About this event (from the organizers):
"Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together. The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us. A core principle behind all No Kings events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events.".
No Kings Protest At Venice Beach This Weekend
Saturday, October 18
12 – 3pm PDT
Abbot Kinney Boulevard & Venice Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90291
About this event (from the organizers):
"Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together. The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us. A core principle behind all No Kings events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events.".
Topanga Canyon Closed Due To Mudflow Forecast
Due to the anticipated storm, Caltrans will close Topanga Canyon Boulevard between Pacific Coast Highway and Grand View Drive today, October 13 at 10:00 PM until Tuesday, October 15 at 5:00 AM.
Caltrans will monitor the situation and evaluate reopening in the morning, depending on the amount of rainfall.
⚠️ Los Angeles County Public Works has issued a PHASE 2 mudflow forecast for the Franklin Fire and Palisades Fire burn areas in Malibu. Some streets may become completely blocked by debris. The Evacuation Warning remains in effect.
The City will continue monitoring the situation and is ready to activate the Emergency Operations Center if necessary.
For more news, updates and traffic conditions on PCH and other local beachside roads, Click Here.
Evacuation Warning Issued For Pacific Palisades
An evacuation warning for the palisades burn scar area due to the significant threat of mud and debris flows expected this week. Neighborhoods under evacuation alert include:
Rambla Pacífico
Carbon Beach West / Malibu Beach
Sweetwater Canyon
Sweetwater Mesa
Serra Retreat
Malibu Creek
Cross Creek
Malibu Colony
Civic Center
Malibu Knolls
Malibu Road
Malibu Country Estates
Puerco Canyon
Las Flores Mesa
Big Rock
Big Rock Beach
Tuna Canyon (South)
Las Tunas Beach
Topanga Beach Drive
A shelter-in-place order has been established in the area affected by the Franklin Fire (Pepperdine University area) due to the significant risk of flash flooding, debris flows, and mudslides. The evacuation warning and shelter-in-place order will remain in effect at least until Wednesday, October 15, at 6:00 a.m.
Tech St Santa Monica
On Monday, October 13, where Santa Monica’s Ocean Avenue and Palisades Park will close for the second annual, Tech St. Santa Monica. This event celebrates 150 years of innovation, entrepreneurship, technology, investment into the community, music, entertainment & culture of the City of Santa Monica. It's a place where industry leaders, visionary entrepreneurs, influencers, celebrities, and innovative startups come together to drive change shaping the future. From gaming and e-commerce, to consumer brand goods, robotics, software, food & beverage, and more, this event touches every industry.
Whether you’re in the tech world or simply curious about the ideas and people shaping tomorrow, this event offers something for everyone.
For more info, Click Here
Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.
Model Robbed Numerous Malibu Men
Detectives from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Malibu/Lost Hills Station are requesting the public’s assistance with locating similar victims of Suspect Adva Lavie. Suspect Lavie has been involved in a series of residential burglaries throughout LA County, targeting older men and posing as a girlfriend or companion on social media dating platforms and applications.
Suspect Lavie AKA Mia Ventura Shoshana/Shana is a described as a female adult, approximately 5’07”, 104 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. She is known to drive a black Porsche SUV and white Mercedes-Benz sedan.
Anyone with information regarding Suspect Lavie is encouraged to contact Lost Hills Station Detective Lopez at 818-878-1808 or LAPD Detective Marsh at 818-374-9500.
If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477),
Former Palisades Resident Arrested For Palisades Fire
Jonathan Rinderknecht, 29, also known as “Jonathan Rinder” and “Jon Rinder,” has been arrested in connection with the Pacific Palisades Fire. The complaint alleges that Rinderknecht's started a fire in Pacific Palisades on New Year's Day -- a blaze that eventually turned into one of the most destructive fires in Los Angeles history, causing death and widespread destruction.
Among the evidence that was collected from his digital devices was an image he generated on ChatGPT depicting a burning city.
A former Pacific Palisades resident now living in Florida has been arrested on a federal criminal complaint charging him with maliciously starting what eventually became the Palisades Fire of January 2025, one of the most destructive wildfires in Los Angeles history, the Justice Department announced today.
Jonathan Rinderknecht, 29, a.k.a. “Jonathan Rinder,” and “Jon Rinder,” of Melbourne, Florida, is charged with destruction of property by means of fire. He was arrested Tuesday and is expected to make his initial appearance today in United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida.
“The complaint alleges that a single person’s recklessness caused one of the worst fires Los Angeles has ever seen, resulting in death and widespread destruction in Pacific Palisades,” said Acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “While we cannot bring back what victims lost, we hope this criminal case brings some measure of justice to those affected by this horrific tragedy.”
“At the request of state and local authorities, ATF took the lead in this complex investigation utilizing techniques unique to our agency's capabilities,” said Special Agent in Charge Kenny Cooper of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Los Angeles Field Division. “The horrific loss of life and property was significantly felt by ATF members, and we are honored to utilize our expertise to provide answers to this community. We remain committed to serving with integrity and distinction.”
According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, law enforcement determined that the Palisades Fire was a “holdover” fire – a continuation of the Lachman Fire that began early in the morning on New Year’s Day 2025. Although firefighters quickly suppressed the Lachman Fire, unbeknownst to anyone the fire continued to smolder and burn underground within the root structure of dense vegetation.
On January 7, heavy winds caused the underground fire to surface and spread above ground in what became known as the Palisades Fire, which caused widespread damage in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles.
Law enforcement determined – using witness statements, video surveillance, cellphone data, and analysis of fire dynamics and patterns at the scene, among other things – that Rinderknecht maliciously set the Lachman Fire just after midnight on January 1 on land owned by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA), an organization that received federal funding. A week later, the same fire – then known as the Palisades Fire – burned federal property.
On the evening of December 31, 2024, Rinderknecht was working as an Uber driver. Two passengers that he drove on separate trips between 10:15 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. that night later told law enforcement they remembered that Rinderknecht appeared agitated and angry.
After dropping off a passenger in Pacific Palisades, Rinderknecht – who once lived in that neighborhood – drove towards Skull Rock Trailhead, parked his car, attempted to contact a former friend, and walked up the trail. He then used his iPhone to take videos at a nearby hilltop area and listened to a rap song – to which he had listened repeatedly in previous days – whose music video included things being lit on fire.
At 12:12 a.m. on January 1, 2025, environmental sensing platforms indicated the Lachman Fire had begun. During the next five minutes, Rinderknecht called 911 several times, but didn’t get through because his iPhone was out of cellphone range. When he finally connected with 911, he was at the bottom of the hiking trail and reported the fire. By that point, a nearby resident already had reported the fire to authorities.
Rinderknecht then fled in his car, passing fire engines driving in the opposite direction. He then turned around and followed the fire engines to the scene, driving at a high rate of speed. Rinderknecht walked up the same trail from earlier that night to watch the fire and the firefighters. At approximately 1:02 a.m., he used his iPhone to take more videos of the scene.
During an interview with law enforcement on January 24, 2025, Rinderknecht lied about where he was when he first saw the Lachman Fire. He claimed he was near the bottom of a hiking trail when he first saw the fire and called 911, but geolocation data from his iPhone carrier showed that he was standing in a clearing 30 feet from the fire as it rapidly grew.
A complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
If convicted, Rinderknecht would face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.
ATF is investigating this matter, with substantial assistance from the Los Angeles Police Department and the United States Forest Service.
Assistant United States Attorneys Mark A. Williams, Matthew W. O’Brien, and Danbee C. Kim of the Environmental Crimes and Consumer Protection Section, and Assistant United States Attorney Laura A. Alexander of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section are prosecuting this case.
Teishoku & Terror - Dinner + JApanesse Horror Talk
Teishoku & Terror:
Dinner + J-Horror talk — one night only in Santa Monica
October 28, 2025
7pm-10pm
At Takuma Sake and Izakaya
2627 Wilshire Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Join us for an evening of teishoku (定食) a Japanese set meal and exploration of ghostly yūrei, cursed tapes, and the dark beauty of Japan’s horror cinema.
ONLY $29 not including drinks
Limited to 40 tickets.
The Teishoku comes with a main dish either:
Teriyaki Chicken
Yakiniku Beef
Grilled Mackerel
Vegan Tempura
Or Sukiyaki
And: Rice
Daikon & Gobo miso soup Kinpira Gobo
Potato Salad
Cabbage Oshinko Pickles
For more info, Click Here
Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.
Santa Monica Police Surround Stolen Car At Beach - Arrest 3 Teens
Intense scene develops as a large armed police response to 3 individuals in a stolen vehicle park at the beach in Santa Monica.
Three teens were taken into custody, one was heard saying he was from Long Beach.
Huge Sinkhole On Venice Boulevard
A 16-inch water main broke at 2:30 AM on Tuesday causing a huge sinkhole on Venice between Alberta Avenue and Canal Street.
The water main break resulted in more than 30 homes losing water service and caused significant damage to North Venice Boulevard.
Roads are closed as crewswork into the night.
For more news, updates and traffic conditions on PCH and other local beachside roads, Click Here.
Venice Beach Boardwalk Hip Hop Show - Destruct
Destruct performs at Concrete Jungle Los Angeles Venice Beach Takeover Show on the Venice Boardwal
Weekly Lane Closures On PCH & Topanga Canyon Blvd
CURRENT PALISADES FIRE AND EMERGENCY WORK LANE CLOSURES Week of October 6 - 12
Please note that crews on PCH may set up single-lane closures anytime within the 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekday working hours. Those below are currently planned, but there may be others. Closures are weather-permitting and subject to change. Motorists should expect delays and are advised to use alternate routes during construction hours. View current traffic conditions by visiting the Caltrans Quickmap.
Pacific Coast Highway (PCH/State Route 1) from Sunset Boulevard in Pacific Palisades to Carbon Beach Terrace in Malibu
Current road conditions/speed limits
McClure Tunnel to Temescal Canyon Road: No restrictions; returned to 45 mph speed limit
Temescal Canyon Road to Sunset Boulevard: Reduced speed limit with cones and signage, 35 mph
Sunset Boulevard to Carbon Beach Terrace: Remains an active work zone, subject to single-lane closures and 25 mph speed limits
Potential lane closures in active work zones
· Ventura County Line to Carbon Beach Terrace
o From Trancas Canyon Road to Guernsey Avenue: Designated work zones, possible nighttime closures
o Corral Canyon Road Bridge repairs: Designated work zones, possible nighttime closures
· South of Las Flores Canyon Road to Sunset Boulevard
o Repair fire-damaged roadway, drainage and electrical systems, and slope repairs
o Lane closures only as needed, 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily
· Just south of Big Rock Drive (closure extends less than half a mile)
o Northbound reduced to one lane 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday
o 8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 29 to 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 30 and 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1 to 6 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 2: PCH reduced to one lane in each direction
· Big Rock Drive to Topanga Canyon Boulevard (SR-27)
o Southern California Edison trenching operation
o Northbound outermost lane and shoulder closures
• 4 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays
o Southbound outermost lane and shoulder closures
• 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays
• 4 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays
· Just south of Topanga Canyon Boulevard (SR-27)
o Rock mitigation repairs
o One lane of northbound PCH closed from Topanga Canyon Boulevard intersection to about a half-mile south
• 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays
Topanga Canyon Boulevard (SR-27) from Pacific Coast Highway to Grand View Drive
Current road conditions and closures
· This stretch of SR-27 remains closed to motoring public from midnight to 5 a.m. daily
· One-way traffic control with a pilot car, postmile 2.5 to 2.8 for Caltrans emergency project work, 5 a.m. to midnight daily
· One-way traffic control for SCE trenching operation, postmile 4.3 to 6.7, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily
· One-way traffic control for SCE overnight work, between Grand View Drive to south of Topanga town center: 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. weekdays
For more news, updates and traffic conditions on PCH and other local beachside roads, Click Here.
Halloween's Slasher Micheal Myers Visits Venice Beach
Micheal Myers roams around the Venice Beach Boardwalk, checking out all the people.
Venice Afterburn Festival - Daytime Tour
Cruising around the Venice Afterburn on the first day.
Venice Afterburn is the Venice Beach version of the Burning Man Festival, a 2 day event held this past weekend.
Parking Meter Prices To Be Increased + Enforcement Time Extended
The Los Angeles City Council voted 10 to 0 to raise parking meter rates 50% citywide. Meters will move from 1.00 to 1.50. The Los Angeles Department of Transportation currently charges between $1 and $8.50 for metered parking, depending on the area.
LADOT will also extend meter hours, with high activity areas running to midnight and most other metered blocks running to 8 p.m.
Meters will also start operating on Sundays
Venice Afterburn
The Venice Afterburn is a yearly celebration of art and community in Venice Beach. As an official Burning Man Regional, it brings the playa spirit into the “default world,” blending it with the creative and colorful energy of Venice.
For two days, Windward Plaza transforms into a playground of magic full of art cars, installations, theme camps, music and comes alive with burners and locals alike.
Free before 6pm. Family-friendly during the day; after 6pm, the kids head home.
$20/day after 6pm (if you’re inside before 6, you’re set!)
All ages welcome until 6pm; for safety reasons, after 6pm it’s 18+ only (kids must head home for the evening). No overnight camping. No outside alcohol. Beer garden for 21+
Santa Monica Pier Bridge Replacement Project
The long-anticipated project to replace and upgrade the 86-year-old Santa Monica Pier Bridge will break ground by the end of the year, following the construction contract approval at Tuesday’s City Council meeting.
Construction is expected to begin in late 2025 and conclude by the end of 2027. The Pier restaurants and shops, parking and visitor access will remain open to welcome the public throughout the duration of the project.
Nationally recognized infrastructure contractor Shimmick Construction Company, Inc. was chosen to bring their extensive expertise in complex bridge projects to lead the 24-month, $35 million project.
The Pier Bridge, built in 1939, connects Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue to the Santa Monica Pier, providing access to one of the city’s most iconic destinations. The project will result in a new bridge that is seismically upgraded, more accessible and ready to serve residents, visitors and businesses well ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympic Games.
The new bridge will:
Meet modern seismic and safety standards
Provide a 75-year service life
Expand sidewalks to improve pedestrian access
Realign walkways on the Pier deck to improve circulation
As part of the project, the historic blue Pier sign will be removed and restored. The original Pier sign is scheduled to be removed at the end of the year and stored until project completion. The refurbished sign will be reinstalled at the end of construction, elevated for improved visibility and clearance.
To ensure visitors can continue to have that Instagrammable Pier experience as the project gets underway, a temporary half scale replica of the iconic neon sign is being installed beginning this week in the middle of the Pier, adjacent to Pier Burger and near the entrance to Pacific Park.
For the next few months, visitors and residents will have the unique opportunity to experience two Pier signs and bid a temporary farewell to the beloved original.
Business and visitor access during construction Bridge construction is scheduled to begin in November 2025 and is expected to last 24 months.
To keep the Pier o
pen and accessible: A temporary pedestrian bridge will connect visitors from Ocean Avenue to the Pier
A temporary vehicular ramp will maintain access to the Pier from the beach parking lot for emergency vehicles, deliveries, and public parking
A comprehensive wayfinding and signage program will guide visitors during construction Project timeline
Utility relocation work is already underway to prepare for construction.
Replica Pier Sign installation: October 2025
Temporary vehicle and pedestrian ramp installation: November 2025-June 2026
Pier Sign removal and rehabilitation: January 2026-September 2027
Bridge Demolition: June-September 2026
Bridge Construction: July 2026-December 2027
Pier Sign Reinstallation: September 2027
Project completion: December 2027
The city conducted more than 30 outreach meetings with Pier businesses, tenants and community stakeholders, and will continue frequent engagement throughout construction to minimize impacts and ensure clear communication.
Approximately 75 percent of the project cost — more than $30 million — is funded by the Federal Highway Bridge Program, with the balance supported by local transportation funds.
Brand New Funhouse At Pacific Park
There’s a brand-new Funhouse at Pacific Park. The amusement park’s latest attraction draws inspiration from the historic ‘Toonerville Funhouse’ in the Santa Monica. But this time, it’s even creepier.
The legendary Toonerville Funhouse appeared in two eras of Santa Monica amusement history – first at Ocean Park Pier in the 1920s and later at Pacific Ocean Park in 1958 – thrilling and unnerving guests for decades. Hidden away for years, its spirit has been resurrected inside Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. Over time, storms and renovations buried its memory, until the entrance to the abandoned funhouse was mysteriously uncovered inside Pacific Park. With a little polishing, it has reopened for guests as a nod to local Santa Monica history and nostalgic fun.
Do you dare? An animatronic fortune teller in a dusty glass cabinet lures unsuspecting guests inside. Then, the 2,800 square feet Funhouse’s nine distinct chambers will disorient, amuse and entertain with optical illusions, tricky layouts, and unexpected surprises.
Tackle massive marionettes as they cackle across a shifting floor. Walk a high wire in an upside-down world. Creep though a momentous mouth, get trapped in a giant gum ball machine, and lose yourself in a mirror maze. Which way is up, and which is down? How about a ride in an ice cream truck with an unhinged clown?
You may even end up in Sprinkles the Clown’s ice cream truck freezer! Will you make it out unscathed? Or will you be lost in this labyrinth of curiosities for another 50 years? The Funhouse at Pacific Park is a unique experience. Through it, we’re honoring the legacy of one of Santa Monica’s historical attractions, while creating a whole new world of modernized mystery and awe.
The 2,800 sq. ft. attraction revives the Toonerville Funhouse with nine themed chambers and a new storyline. The Funhouse is now a permanent addition.
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