Latest News

Great White Sharks Filmed Breaching At Pacific Palisades



A great white shark breaches into the sky just a few hundred yards Sunset Point in Pacific Palisades. The guy in videos says it's Malibu, but we all know that is Sunset, miles away from Malibu.

Santa Monica Pier’s Día de los Muertos Celebration



Friday, November 1st | 5:00PM - 8:00PM
Saturday, November 2nd | 5:00PM - 10:00PM

Santa Monica Pier pays tribute to the cultural tradition of Día de los Muertos – Day of the Dead– with a two-day public art installation taking place from November 1st through November 2nd, 2024. The fourth annual Santa Monica Pier’s Día de los Muertos Celebration honors people, places, and ideas that are important to Santa Monican’s through free, family-friendly programming!

This year, we will also be bringing back Letters of Life, an art installation where we ask members of the community to share their favorite Pier memories, photographs, and anecdotes of family and friends who have passed. These memories will decorate our space via our digital murals that surround the historic 100-year-old Carousel and will be displayed over the course of our celebration.

See you there 🎃👻

For more info, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Ocean Water Use Warning for Los Angeles County Beaches



The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health cautions residents who are planning to visit the below Los Angeles County beaches to avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters:

October 30, 2024

BEACH AREA WARNINGS:

· Manhattan Beach Pier in Manhattan Beach.

100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.

· Hermosa Beach Pier in Hermosa Beach.

100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.

· Redondo Beach Pier in Redondo Beach.

100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.

· Redondo Beach at Sapphire St.

100 yards up and down the coast from the storm drain.

· Windward storm drain at Venice Beach.

100 yards up and down the coast from the storm drain.

· Imperial Highway storm drain at Dockweiler State Beach. Dockweiler Tower 56

100 yards up and down the coast from the storm drain.

· Big Rock Beach in Malibu.

100 yards up and down the coast from the public access steps.

· Malaga Cove in Palos Verdes Estates.

The entire swim area.

· Pena Creek at Las Tunas County Beach.

100 yards up and down the coast from the outfall.

· Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey

The entire swim area.

· Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica

100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.

· Outer Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro:

100 yards from the lifeguard station.

· Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro:

The entire swim area.

· Topsail Street extension in Venice:

100 yards up and down the coast from Topsail Street.

These warnings have been issued due to bacterial levels exceeding health standards when last tested.

Use the map below to obtain the current water quality status of your favorite beach location. Use your mouse wheel to zoom into a particular location. Click on the marker to identify the sampling location. This map is updated as conditions change.


Homeless Man Arrested For Fatal Santa Monica Stabbing



On 10/16/24 at about 7pm, SMPD Officers responded to the 500 block of Broadway for a call of a bleeding man lying on the sidewalk. (Original Press Release)

Upon their arrival, officers discovered the victim of a stabbing. The homeless victim, who is a recent arrival to Santa Monica from Kentucky, was able to provide a general description of the suspect along with a possible first name. Through surveillance video and follow-up investigation, SMPD Detectives identified a suspect.

On 10/23/24, 23-year-old Damian Garcia was located and arrested for the assault. Garcia is also homeless and new to Santa Monica from Florida. At Garcia’s arraignment on October 25th, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed one felony count of 245(a)(1) PC (Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Great Bodily Injury). Garcia is additionally being held on a fugitive warrant from Florida and will face extradition. He remains in custody of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Garcia’s criminal history includes Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Burglary to an Inhabited Dwelling, Vehicle Theft, Armed Robbery, and Resisting Arrest with Violence.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Det. Ben Jenkins at (310) 458-4884, Sgt. Chad Goodwin at (310) 458-8931, or the Watch Commander desk 24 hours a day at (310) 458-8427.

SMPD Requests Assistance with Beach Fatality



The Santa Monica Police Department continues its investigation into the tragic incident that occurred on Thursday, October 17th at approximately 11:00pm, where a driver was arrested for driving under the influence after fatally running over a victim on the sand near the 1400 block of the Beach.

We are specifically asking for help from anyone who assisted at the scene. We encourage these Good Samaritans to speak with department investigators, as they may have valuable information that could aid in determining the totality of circumstances that lead to this incident. Your information, no matter how minor it may seem, could be crucial to our efforts.

Anyone with at the scene or with information about this incident is asked to contact Investigator Evan Raleigh (evan.raleigh@santamonica.gov; 310-458-8954) or Sergeant Krueger (nick.krueger@santamonica.gov).

General Information:

Date of Incident: Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 11:30PM
Type of Incident: DUI, Vehicular Manslaughter
Location: 1400 Block of the Beach
Suspect: 21-year-old male, arrested at the scene – Yuyang Sun
Victim: Female

The suspect, identified as YuYang Sun of Arcadia, was taken into police custody. Sun was reportedly driving in circles at high speeds on the sand when he ran over the victim, SMPD officials said. He was arrested and charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving and gross vehicular manslaughter.

Venice Skate Park 15th Anniversary Jam



The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks in conjunction with SkatePark Association International invite you to attend the 15th Anniversary of the Venice Beach Skatepark JAM on Saturday, October 26th, 10 a.m. -4:00 p.m.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Nightmare On Ocean Ave



Join Us for Ultimate Halloween Bash at Santa Monica Whaler w/ amazing decor, sick DJs, insane drink specials, & a costume contest for prizes

October 31 · 8pm - November 1 · 2am PDT
Santa Monica Whaler 101 Broadway Santa Monica, CA 90401



Unleash your fiendish creativity and howl at Nightmare On Ocean Ave! Don your best costume and join us for a fang-tastic time as you party the night away at the hottest Halloween party on the westside ... at The Santa Monica Whaler in Downtown Santa Monica, at 101 Broadway (at Ocean Ave)

For more info & to buy tickets, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Santa Monica Haunted Beach House



A one off special event, taking place on Halloween night in Santa Monica. A boutique music festival featuring big name special guest DJ's & artists.

October 31 · 9pm - November 1 · 2am PDT
2640 Main St, 2640 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405, USA

Imagine an adult KNOTTS SCARY farm! A real life Haunted House, with Alcohol, food and a huge line up of top artists, including two of America's most in demand Producer/DJ's, EC TWINS (SONY MUSIC) and secret special guests! RSVP IS ESSENTIAL- This event is FREE

See you there 🎃👻

For more info & to RSVP, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Santa Monica Little Blue Dog Run And Doggie Fall Fashion Show



There’s still time to register for BBB’s Doggie Fall Fashion Show!

Saturday 11/9 at the grand opening of our new off-leash dog run and walk the doggie run(way) with your pup to win amazing prizes





To enter, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Día de los Muertos Celebration in Downtown Santa Monica



The annual Día de los Muertos Celebration on Third Street Promenade is back! The evening festivities will feature live entertainment, large-scale art, a Latinx pop-up market, community altars, kids' arts and crafts, face painting and games for all ages.

Saturday, October 26 · 2 - 8pm PDT

Public Art Exhibit:

Los Angeles-based artist Ricardo Soltero will display his larger-than-life paper mache sculptures throughout Third Street Promenade. Expect to see catrinas up to 14 feet tall, alebrijes, and special pieces made exclusively for Santa Monica!



Live Performances:

Aztec Dancers of Santa Monica Folklorico Dance Company | Academia de Danza BFFM | Ballet Folklorico del Alma | Danny Munoz | Neiya Arts | Mariachi de Uclatlán | Santa Monica Ballet Folklorico

KCRW DJ Jose Galvan will close out the night with a dance party!

Hosted by artist, singer and songwriter Marlene Beltran.



Kid and Pet-Friendly Activities:

FREE arts and crafts

FREE face-painting

Latinx Pop-up Market hosted by Molcajete Dominguero

Curated art pop-up by Steve E. Galindo, The Style Guyde

Community Altars:

A colorful display of community altars will be on view throughout the day.

For more info, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Día de los Muertos On The Santa Monica Pier



Friday, November 1st | 5:00PM - 8:00PM
Saturday, November 2nd | 5:00PM - 10:00PM

Santa Monica Pier pays tribute to the cultural tradition of Día de los Muertos – Day of the Dead– with a two-day public art installation taking place from November 1st through November 2nd, 2024. The fourth annual Santa Monica Pier’s Día de los Muertos Celebration honors people, places, and ideas that are important to Santa Monican’s through free, family-friendly programming!

This year, we will also be bringing back Letters of Life, an art installation where we ask members of the community to share their favorite Pier memories, photographs, and anecdotes of family and friends who have passed. These memories will decorate our space via our digital murals that surround the historic 100-year-old Carousel and will be displayed over the course of our celebration.

See you there 🎃👻

For more info, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Wild Police Chase & Stand Off In Santa Monica



We follow Morgan as she runs from the Santa Monica, hides herself in an apartment building sparking a battle with the building's residents. Then like a scene from a madcap comedy,, the chase continues, until she finally caught. All this because she stole some items from a dude at the beach.

Venice AfterBurn With German In Venice



Mike, aka German in Venice, vlogs about daily life in Venice Beach, and the nearby communities.

"Today on Venice Beach was the epic Afterburn Party from the famous Burning Man in the desert. Live music techno, crazy lights, just a total party environment. We also see the electric light parade, rollerskate parade, and just total craziness in Venice Beach. Just another beautiful day in paradise."

Classic Cars Meet Up at Santa Monica Pier's Locals' Night



The October Locals Night on the Santa Monica with classic cars.

Halloween Costume Surf With LA Kooky Surfer Girls



Are you ready for a Kooky Spooky Halloween Costume surf?! Join LA Kooky Surfer Girls on Saturday October 26th in Topanga Bay from 9-11am! They'll have a tent on the beach so come post up or join everyone in the water! 🎃👻

- Costume contest with prizes woo! We are recommending a sea creatures theme but please wear whatever you desire!
- Bring your friends! All are welcome!
- Candy and sweet treats!
- Parking: pch or paid parking in the lot. Walk down stairs and head south to the bay!

See you there 🎃👻

For more onfo, 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?

Santa Moinica is conjuring up the perfect trick-or-treating roadmap, so make sure you're dressed to impress! Participating businesses will be handing out candy from 3-6PM, until candy runs out.

Halloween Party on the Promenade

On the 1200 Block of Third Street Promenade (between Arizona & Wilshire), join everyone for a Monster Mash for all ages! Dogs are more than welcome to join the fun too (and hopefully wearing costumes of their own...)

The party will include :

Pumpkin decorating
Games
Face painting
Photo ops
Free treats, stickers, and tattoos
And more!

Plus DJ Asha will be spinning all your favorite kids' music 🎃👻

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Drunk Driver Fatally Runs Over Homeless Woman On The Beach



On Thursday , October 17th at approximately 11:30pm, Santa Monica Harbor Officers were flagged down near the 1400 Block of the Beach for a vehicle stuck in the sand. Officers located an unconscious female, believed to be homeless, wedged beneath the vehicle. Despite their efforts to reach the victim and provide aid, the Santa Monica Fire Department (SMFD) determined the victim was deceased at the scene. Using SMFD resources, the vehicle was lifted and the victim was extricated.

The SMPD Major Accident Response Team (MART) remain on scene, actively investigating the incident. The LA County Coroner’s Office has been notified and will be responding. As this investigation is ongoing, the victim has not been identified.

The driver, a 21- year-old male operating a 2015 Infiniti SUV, who remained on scene, was reported to be driving in circles at high speeds on the sand when he ran over the victim. Following a DUI investigation, the suspect was arrested and preliminarily charged with the following:

· 23152(a) VC- Driving under the influence

· 23105 VC - Reckless Driving

· 191.5(a) PC – Gross Vehicular Manslaughter

Anyone with information about this incident or suspect is asked to contact the Watch Commander desk 24 hours a day at (310) 458-8427.

Another Stabbing In Santa Monica



On Wednesday, October 16th at approximately 7:00pm, Santa Monica Police Officers responded to the area of 5th Court and Broadway for an individual in need of medical assistance. Upon arrival, officers located a homeless male with a stab wound. The Santa Monica Fire Department responded and transported the individual to a local area hospital for treatment. He remains in serious, but stable condition.

The suspect in this incident is described as male, Black, approximately 20-25 years old with dreadlocks, with a very distinctive “FTP” tattoo on his face.

SMPD Detectives continue to search for surrounding security camera footage of the incident and are asking for the community to contact the Watch Commander (310-458-8426) should you have any information that may assist in identifying the suspect.

Suspect: Male, Black, 20-25 years old, dreadlocks, “FTP” tattoo on his face; Housing status unknown

Victim: Male, Homeless

This incident marks another unacceptable crime in the City of Santa Monica that involves the intersection of complex societal issues of homelessness, substance abuse, and dangerous weapons.

October Locals’ Night



Come celebrate Homecoming at the Pier on Thursday, October 17, at a very special Locals' Night! This free community event will bring together friends, families, and neighbors for an exciting evening filled with school spirit and fun for everyone.

Kick off the night with a lively pep rally featuring performances from SAMOHI, SMC, and St. Monica's athletic teams, cheer squads, and talented musicians. Groove to live music from DJ Devil-Los, Westside Crew, and The Wayback Machine, and don’t miss the Books & Cookies musical story time in the Merry Go-Round building for the little ones!

Car lovers can enjoy the Car Meet-Up on the Pier Deck, and as a special treat, we’re celebrating the opening night of the annual "Save the Pier" play, directed by Tony-Award winner Paul Sand.

It’s a night to come together, enjoy local talent, and be part of the Pier’s unique community spirit. We can’t wait to see you there!

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Assault Suspect Wanted By Santa Monica Police



TThe Santa Monica Police Department is seeking the community’s assistance in identifying the individual shown in the attached video and photos. The suspect is described as male Black or other, approximately 25-35 years old, with bleached blonde hair, and a black beard wearing a dark shirt and shorts with tattoos on his forearms. This individual is wanted in connection with an assault that occurred on September 22nd at approximately 12:35AM near the 1400 block of Alley 5. He was last seen fleeing the area eastbound on Santa Monica Blvd towards 7th Street.



f you recognize this individual or have any information, please contact Detective Sean Baker (sean.baker@santamonica.gov ) or Detective Sergeant Chad Goodwin (chad.goodwin@santamonica.gov) at 310-458-8932.

SMC Shooter Was An Employee With A History Of Violent Crimes



The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) has confirmed that a Santa Monica College (SMC) Custodial Operations Manager was critically injured following a shooting that occurred at the SMC Center for Media & Design (CMD), 1660 Stewart Street, at approximately 9:50 p.m. on Monday, October 14, 2024.

Acknowledging the impact of this incident on the students and SMC personnel, Santa Monica College Police Department (SMCPD) Chief Johnnie Adams stated, “As we try to make sense of this horrific act of workplace violence, the safety of our community is our primary focus. We are deeply grateful to SMCPD personnel and all our law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly to apprehend the suspect.”

“To help our community through this very difficult time, SMC will be providing…counseling and mental/emotional support,” said SMC Superintendent/President Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery in an October 15 message to the community. “At this heartbreaking time, I urge us all to come together in kindness and compassion as we navigate this unspeakable tragedy.”

On the evening of the shooting, SMPD, SMCPD, and Santa Monica Fire Department personnel arrived quickly to render aid and secure the campus. The suspect fled immediately after the shooting and remained at large overnight. The victim was transported to a local hospital and remains in critical condition.

After a swift and thorough investigation, SMPD Detectives identified Davon Durell Dean (D.O.B. 01/08/1985), an SMC employee, as the suspected shooter. Dean has a history of arrests including for attempt murder in 2011 and an assault with a deadly weapon, a firearm, in 2019. His only convictions were for misdemeanor property crimes.

Today, October 15th, at approximately 3:00 pm, officers with the Hawthorne Police Department, located the suspect’s vehicle near El Segundo Blvd. and Aviation Blvd. After a short pursuit, a pursuit intervention technique was used to stop the suspect's vehicle. Despite the efforts of the Hawthorne Police Department’s Crisis Negotiations Team, Dean was found deceased inside his vehicle from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Los Angeles County Coroner will be responding.

The investigation remains ongoing, and detectives are working to determine the full sequence of events leading to this tragedy. There are no known additional suspects involved and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

“I am so proud of our detectives who worked tirelessly throughout the night in collaboration with our partners at the Santa Monica College Police Department to identify and locate the suspect in this tragic incident. Our officers’ commitment to the safety of the Santa Monica community is evident and remains paramount.” – Chief Batista

SMC Student Assaulted - Hit On Head With Skateboard



From Santa Monica Close Up:

"Santa Monica Police officers responded to a report of an assault at Santa Monica College on Monday, October 14, 2024. According to witnesses, a student walking near the intersection of Pico Boulevard and 17th Street after class was struck in the head with a skateboard. The victim was able to call 911 for assistance."

Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

Shooting At SMC Was Workplace Violence - Suspect Now Dead



On Monday evening, just before 10 p.m., a Santa Monica College employee was shot at the Center for Media and Design, a Santa Monica College satellite campus on Stewart Street in the City of Santa Monica. The individual was transported to a local area hospital in critical condition and the suspect got away. This was a workplace violence incident, not a random act.

On Tuesday, a standoff with the suspect took place in Hawthorne on Aviation Boulevard just north of El Segundo Boulevard.

Hawthorne SWAT officers surrounded a vehicle facing the wrong way on the street. A deceased person could be seen in the driver's seat. Officers were seen carefully removing a weapon from the vehicle using a long tool and remaining in defensive posture inside the SWAT vehicle.

Santa Monica police were at the scene and confirmed the individual is the suspect in the college shooting. They also said they believe the suspect died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The Santa Monica Police Department is leading the criminal investigation, with assistance from the Santa Monica College Police Department and Santa Monica College. The College is fully cooperating with authorities, and all Santa Monica College campuses were closed on Tuesday to prioritize the safety and well-being of the community.

Santa Monica College remains committed to maintaining a safe environment for all employees and students. The College has a Workplace Violence Prevention Program, which offers resources and support.

Westside Wednesday



The Ghetto Beach Boyz & Bay Street Boards team up next week to bring you "Westside Wednesday,” a night of food, games, music & more 🌭🍻🎤🏈

Stay tuned for special guest announcements and a super exclusive clothing drop!

Pull up Wednesday October 23rd, 5-9PM!

For more info, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Full Raw Sets Of Surfing At Malibu



Raw surf clips of full sets rolling into Malibu from April 17th, from Brad Jacobson.

Daisy The Venice Healer Plans To Adopt Teen Boy



From Santa Monica Close Up:

"On Monday, October 14, 2024, Venice Healer Daisy updated the community from her Healing Arts Dojo in Venice Beach regarding her ongoing efforts to support a 14-year-old boy currently in her care. According to Daisy, the youth, who has experienced difficulties with the foster care system and recently left a group home, has temporarily found shelter at her temple.

Daisy explained that she has made this arrangement fully transparent to local authorities, ensuring that all parties, including LAPD and other relevant departments, are aware of the situation. Daisy asserts that authorities have acknowledged the close bond that has formed between her and the boy, which, she says, has led her to provide him with daily meals and arrange hygiene care with the help of the community."

Click Here for more Stories about Venice Healer Daisy

Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

Little Blue Dog Run Grand Opening Celebration



Big Blue Bus is hosting a grand opening celebration of Little Blue Dog Run, a new off-leash dog run open to the public!

This project aims to transform an underutilized landscape alongside Big Blue Bus's headquarters into a vibrant open green space for our community. Little Blue Dog Run amenities include fenced exercise areas for dogs of all sizes, drinking fountains, trees, and a picnic area with seating.

Join the fun on November 9, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Big Blue Bus headquarters located at 1660 7th St., Santa Monica, CA.

Guests will enjoy music, food trucks, a blue ribbon cutting, pet training demonstrations, pet adoptions, and enter your pup in the Doggie Fall Fashion Show and walk the run(way) to win amazing prizes


For more info and to register for the doggie fashion show, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Surfer's Stolen E-Bike Recovered - Thief Arrested



From Santa Monica Close Up:

"The incident unfolded after a surfer, who had ridden his electric bike to Venice Beach earlier in the day, discovered it was missing when he returned from the ocean. Luckily, the bike was equipped with an Apple AirTag tracking device, which allowed the owner to trace it to Santa Monica. He promptly contacted local authorities for assistance.

Santa Monica officers responded quickly, using the tracking data to pinpoint the bike’s location. Upon arrival, they detained a man near the stolen bike while conducting their investigation. The bike's owner confirmed the electric bike was his, and it was returned in the same condition as when it was taken.



While the suspect did not confess to the theft, officers discovered he had an outstanding warrant. The man was arrested and transported to Santa Monica Jail. The police are continuing their investigation into the bike theft and possible additional charges."




Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

Santa Monica Pier Gondola Project



Join us behind the scenes of the Gondola Project on the iconic Pacific Wheel! In this exclusive footage, get an insider's look at the transformation of this beloved ride, now featuring brand-new maps inside each gondola. These maps give tourists and guests valuable information on the stunning views they’ll see from the top of the Ferris Wheel. Watch as our team brings new life to one of the park’s most popular attractions, enhancing your experience from every angle!

Annual Save The Pier Play



Don’t miss the annual "Save the Pier" Play, directed by Tony Award Winner Paul Sand! This 1-hour live show recounts the grassroots fight to save the Santa Monica Pier

Oct 17-20
7:30pm
West End of Santa Monica Pier
FREE

For more info, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.