Latest News

Chaotic Brawl at Venice Beach Car Show



Video of the chaotic brawl that happened during the Cinco de Mayo Car Show at Venice Beach. Guy gets upset and repeatedly says "Fuck Mexicans", pretty much offending everyone there. The angry crowd jumps him. Police eventually showed up after the fight was broken up. No arrests were made and the police encouraged the man to leave the area, instead of going back and fighting more.

14th Annual Nick Gabaldón Day



Join us for the 14th Annual Nick Gabaldón Day—a celebration of surf, community, culture, that honors the legacy of one of California’s pioneering Black surfers.

Pull up, bring the family, get a lesson, and help us start the 2026 season off right! We can’t wait to see you.

Registration for free lessons open.

For more info, Click Here

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Santa Monica Pier Locals Night Season Finale



Some nights on the Pier just feel like summer. This is one of them.

Locals' Night wraps up its spring season with a May finale that's got it all: the roar of classic engines, live music filling the ocean air, a Fleet Week run honoring Rick Crocker, and the voices of the Pico neighborhood sharing stories that have shaped Santa Monica for generations.

Thirsty? Locals' Night is proud to partner with NEFT Vodka to bring you a full bar experience right on the Pier. Grab a drink, enjoy the music, and toast to a great season.

Stay for the whole night. It's free, it's all ages, and there's nowhere better to be.

For more info, Click Here

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SMPD Arrests Armed Kidnapping Suspect



On May 17, 2026, at approximately 12:14 a.m., Santa Monica Police Department officers responded to the Vons located at 1311 Wilshire Boulevard regarding a reported kidnapping involving an adult victim.

The preliminary investigation indicates Jorge Luis Vega, 32, of Los Angeles, and the victim were known to one another and had been in a dating relationship. This does not appear to be a random incident.

During the incident, Vega allegedly approached the victim in the parking lot and left the area with her in a vehicle. Vega also allegedly threatened a witness who attempted to intervene.

SMPD officers and detectives immediately began efforts to locate the victim and suspect. Later that day, the adult victim was located in the City of Beaumont. She was no longer with Vega and was contacted by law enforcement.

On May 18, 2026, at approximately 3:15 a.m., SMPD personnel located Vega in Los Angeles. Vega fled in a vehicle, and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit ended in the 900 block of West 85th Street in Los Angeles, where an officer involved shooting occurred.

Vega was taken into custody at the scene. No officers were injured, and no gunshot injuries were reported. The victim was not present during the pursuit or officerinvolved shooting.

Vega is currently in custody and was booked on suspicion of:

Kidnapping

Criminal Threats

Brandishing a Firearm

Rape

Felon in Possession of a Firearm

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. SMPD is coordinating with the appropriate investigative agencies and will provide additional information as it becomes available.

SMPD is not releasing the victim’s identity due to the nature of the investigation.

Metro Bus Fatal Runs Over Pedestrian - Possible Suicide



The Santa Monica Police Department is investigating a fatal traffic collision involving a pedestrian and a Metro bus that occurred Friday afternoon at Main Street and Ocean Park Boulevard.

On May 15, 2026, at approximately 2:00 p.m., SMPD officers and Santa Monica Fire Department personnel responded to the area of Main Street and Ocean Park Boulevard regarding a collision involving a pedestrian and a Metro bus. The pedestrian, an adult female, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Investigators located security video from a nearby business, which provided a clearer view of the circumstances leading up to the collision. Preliminary investigation indicates the Metro bus was stopped when the pedestrian moved underneath the bus. As the bus pulled away from the stop, the pedestrian was struck and sustained fatal injuries.

The Metro bus operator remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. At this stage of the investigation, there is no indication of impairment or distraction on the part of the operator.

A Big Blue Bus vehicle that arrived at the stop moments after the incident was temporarily held for documentation and released as soon as practical.

Main Street was closed between Ocean Park Boulevard and Hollister Avenue during the investigation. Traffic on westbound Ocean Park Boulevard toward Main Street was also impacted.

This remains an active investigation.

The Ocean Cleanup To Add Interceptors LA And San Gabriel Rivers



Following the success of Interceptor 007, The Ocean Cleanup signed agreements with county and city leaders in Los Angeles to expand our operations to the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers

This project aims to prevent an estimated 410–628 tons of plastic from entering the Pacific Ocean through the LA rivers each year.

BEACH BOYS 5K & WELLNESS DAY



The Beach Boys singer, songwriter and founding member Mike Love will be onsite for the inaugural BEACH BOYS 5K & WELLNESS DAY, leading a special pre-race meditation at the start line, bringing a moment of mindfulness and intention to kick off the day’s festivities. Immediately following the meditation, a dedication ceremony will take place, further honoring the band’s cultural legacy and deep ties to California.

For more than 60 years, The Beach Boys have personified and shared the California Dream and Endless Summer spirit embodied in their timeless classics such as “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” “I Get Around,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “Surfer Girl,” and more. Now, that sun-drenched, fun-loving attitude has inspired the creation of this event, to be held in the heart of Santa Monica on the Third Street Promenade on May 16, 2026. “As a veteran meditator and yoga practitioner, I am thrilled and honored to be a part of this special day in Santa Monica, my backyard, celebrating wellness and community. Congratulations to everyone participating in the 5K run, remember, take good care of your feet, stretch, hydrate, but most of all have FUN FUN FUN. Namaste.” - Mike Love

Event highlights include:

● “Fun, Fun, Fun” Runs:

○ The Beach Boys 5K. Sign up for The Beach Boys 5K! It’s a 3.1-mile race along Ocean Ave. Participants will take in sweeping views of Santa Monica beach and earn an exclusive finisher’s medal after crossing the oceanfront finish line.

○ “Pet Sounds” Pooch Run: Sign up with your best friend for this doggy dash. All dogs who complete the run will receive their own edible finishers medallion. ● “You’re So Good to Me” Wellness Activations: from guided meditations and spin classes to warm up yoga and cold plunge sessions, reset the mind and body with holistic wellness experiences.

● “Don’t Worry Baby” VIP Beer Garden: hang out and cheers, dance, sip and sing along to The Beach Boys’ classic records, spun by DJ’s, along with new music by up-and-coming artists.

Leading up to the May 16th event, organizers are dedicated to supporting the community’s wellness journey. Runners and walkers can prepare for the 3.1-mile course by training to a curated “Run, Run, Run” Beach Boys 5K Run Playlist. This mix of upbeat, iconic hits and motivational B-sides for discovery is specifically designed to keep participants on pace and is available now on Spotify.

Iconic Artists Group and Mascot Sports are working with Bravado, Universal Music Group’s brand management and merchandise company, to develop this event.

The Beach Boys 5K & Wellness Day is open to the public.

For more info, Click Here

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Tragic Scooter Accident-Venice Beach Beloved Richard Pinard



On Easter morning, my Dad Richard Pinard "Grandpa" was tragically hit by a car while riding his scooter in the bike lane at Washington and Sanborn, by Venice Beach boardwalk and passed away 4 days later. Losing him has been incredibly devastating for me and his family, and I still can't believe the reality of his absence. He was healthy, living his best beach life in Marina Del Rey at the age of 92, yes, still riding an e-scooter. People were amazed at how he looked in his 60's and was so strong and healthily for his age. He was my life, my world. Richard was a loving father who raised me from the age of 7. He was a devoted grandpa to my 3 kids, and a cherished member of the Venice Beach community. Everyone who knew him, loved him! My Dad will be dearly missed and I will never be the same now that he is gone. He would of lived to be 100 as he always told us and he definitely could have, no doubt at all.

My Dad did not have any life insurance, and I am planning his funeral arrangements with limited funds. So many kind Venice/Marina Del Rey residents and others have reached out to express their condolences and offered to donate to my Dad's funeral expenses. I created this GoFundMe to give everyone a way to support Richard, and I am deeply grateful for any contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in his honor. Richard A. Pinard will be laid to rest at the Roosevelt Memorial Park Cemetery in Gardena, California. Thank you for your support! On Easter morning, my Dad Richard Pinard "Grandpa" was tragically hit by a car while riding his scooter in the bike lane at Washington and Sanborn, by Venice Beach boardwalk and passed away 4 days later. Losing him has been incredibly devastating for me and his family, and I still can't believe the reality of his absence. He was healthy, living his best beach life in Marina Del Rey at the age of 92, yes, still riding an e-scooter. People were amazed at how he looked in his 60's and was so strong and healthily for his age. He was my life, my world. Richard was a loving father who raised me from the age of 7. He was a devoted grandpa to my 3 kids, and a cherished member of the Venice Beach community. Everyone who knew him, loved him! My Dad will be dearly missed and I will never be the same now that he is gone. He would of lived to be 100 as he always told us and he definitely could have, no doubt at all.


Kidical Mass Family Bike Ride



Enjoy a fun-filled morning with family-friendly activities and a group bike ride for all ages. Wear GREEN for mental health awareness month!

Co-hosted by the City's Human Services Division and Santa Monica Spoke, the 5th annual Kidical Mass bike ride + Mental Health & Wellness Fair is back at Clover Park!



Arrive early to enjoy:

Community partners offering activities and local mental health resources
Helmet decorating
Bagels, juice, coffee, and snacks
Wear GREEN for mental health month!
Family-friendly group bike ride for ALL ages on Santa Monica streets

We will meet on the west side of the park, near 25th Street and Oak Street. Remember to wear GREEN for Mental Health Awareness month! The group ride will help all participants develop skills and comfort for city bike riding. This crossover event celebrates May as Bike Month and Mental Health Awareness Month.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here

Bay Street Boards Futbol Friday!



Come get in the spirit of the World Cup with Bay Street Boards on May 15th with their first ever Futbol Friday! ⚽️🎉 Bay Street Boards will be celebrating the release of a super exclusive soccer jersey just in time for this year’s Mundial! There will be soccer themed games, vintage matches on the screen and more fun to get us all hyped for the World Cup 26 in Bay Streetstyle.

Food by North Shore Beef

This is a family friendly event so bring the kids and enjoy some futbol action!

Bay Street Boards
3216 Santa Monica Blvd,
Santa Monica, CA 90404

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Santa Monica Missing Child



The Santa Monica Police Department is asking for the public’s help locating King Darius Lozada, 7, who was last seen with his father, Darius Clay Jackson, 55, on May 5, 2026, at approximately 6:50 p.m.

King was last seen traveling northbound in an alley near Arizona Avenue and Berkeley Street. He may be on foot or riding a black electric scooter.

Missing Child: King Darius Lozada, 7 years old, 85 pounds; 4’0”
Clothing: Dark blue sweatshirt and light blue sweatpants

Parent/Suspect: Darius Clay Jackson, 55 years old, 210 pounds, 6’3”
Clothing: Black hooded sweatshirt, black sweatpants, and white shoes

King may be at risk. Darius Clay Jackson may be experiencing a mental health crisis.

Anyone who sees King Darius Lozada or Darius Clay Jackson should call 9-1-1 immediately.

Venice Church Robbed By Youth From Local Non-Profit



According to the source of this video footage, during the noon mass at St Mark Church in Venice, one of the “youths” from the non-profit Safe Place for Youth, walked over and stole the money box in the courtyard.


Sword-Wielding Man Attacks & Slices Person in Venice - Still on the Loose



A man identified as 720 Rose Ave. resident Justin Tucker by the building’s management, Venice Community Housing, attacked another man with a sword nearly slicing his arm off on Thursday.

Witnesses stated Tucker had just returned from a shopping trip to Smart & Final and was approached by a man at the entrance to his building. The man asked Tucker for drugs. Truck went up to his place and returned with a large sword atacking the man, slashing his arm.



Witnesses called 911 to report the attack as Tucker took off on foot.

A nurse passingby was flagged down and his was able to stablize the victim till paramedics arrived. He was transported to a local trauma center.

Police have not officially announce Tucker as being the suspect, they just stated the suspect is a white male who was wearing a blue hat, blue jeans, and a green hoodie when he left the area. He is currently on the loose.

The weapon he used was a 16 inch sword and has not been found.

The nonprofit Venice Housing Corporation provides low-income housing and job services to the neighborhood’s inhabitants.

LA World Cup 26 Fan Zone at Venice Beach



The Official LA World Cup 26 Fan Zone at Venice Beach. Two days of live match viewing, food, music, and a historic World Cup weekend on the Venice boardwalk.

This is not a free event, tickets cost up to $87.

On Friday, July 10 and Saturday, July 11, 2026, the Official LA World Cup 26 Fan Zone at Venice Beach turns one of the most iconic boardwalks in America into the place to be for two full days of live match broadcasts, food, music, and culture.

Three live quarterfinal match broadcasts on a large LED screen with full sound. Global food vendors and beverage gardens running the length of the activation. Live music, DJs, and cultural programming between and after matches. Family programming throughout the day.

When the matches end each night, the official after-party begins — DJ headliners, live performances, and an evening only Venice can deliver.

FRIDAY, JULY 10, 2026 — Rain or Shine

Doors open: 10:30 AM PT

Quarterfinal kickoff: 12:00 PM PT (live from SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles)

Live music, DJs, and cultural programming all afternoon and evening

Official after-party with DJ headliners (18+) following the match

Programming wraps: 10:00 PM PT

SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2026 — Rain or Shine

Doors open: 12:00 PM PT

First quarterfinal kickoff: 2:00 PM PT

Second quarterfinal kickoff: 6:00 PM PT

Live music, DJs, and cultural programming throughout the day

Official after-party with DJ headliners (18+) following the second match

Programming wraps: 10:00 PM PT

Rain or Shine. No Refunds.

For tickets and more info, Click Here

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Daisy The Venice Healer's Plan to Fix 3rd St Promenade



Venice Healer Daisy is running for Santa Monica City Council and she shares her plan to revitalize Santa Monica's dead 3rd Street Promenade if she is elected as a member of the City Council.

The Santa Monica City Council is made up of seven members elected by the community. As the legislative authority, City Council sets the policies, priorities, and budget for the local government. The City Council provides leadership through policy development regarding the current practices and future direction of the City as well as the adoption and oversight of the City budget.

Click Here for more Stories about Venice Healer Daisy

CARS & TACOS on the Beach



Zuma Cars and Coffee brings every type of person to share the passion of the automobile and motorsports. You will often find the world’s rarest, most expensive and fastest cars displayed here. A community event where celebrities and us regular folk walk around, take pictures and visit with fellow enthusiasts. And we really aren’t snobs!!

Cars on display include hyper-cars, exotic cars, race cars, classic cars as well as the unusual. This is where auto enthusiasts gather to share their amazing vehicles and camaraderie.

Zuma Cars and Coffee is a monthly event beginning at 9:00 AM and ending at 11:30 AM. It takes place on the first Sunday of selected months. The location is at Perry’s Beach Cafe, 2400 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica.

Harry Perry Update - Car Crash



Harry Perry gives an update on what happened to him and his famous guitar.

Venice Beach Cinco de Mayo Car Show



Checking out the Venice Beach Car Show on Cinco de Mayo Weekend

Venice Oakwood Park Cinco de Mayo Festival



Palisades Night at the Bungalow



PALISADES NIGHT

The Bungalow Santa Monica

On Thursday, May 7 | 5pm

We're bringing The Pali community back together for a night that gives back.

Palisades Night is dedicated to supporting LA Strong Sports in rebuilding the Pacific Palisades Park and Recreation Center, with 100% of proceeds going directly to the cause. This one is about showing up for our home and the people who make it what it is.

We'll be pouring specials inspired by classic Palisades food and drink staples, dropping themed merch, hosting a community raffle at 9pm with special prizes, and setting the scene with a local celebrity emcee. Sounds by Pali native DJ Graham Funke will carry us from golden hour into the night.

All guests must be 21+ to enter. Tickets are $20.00

Rain or Shine. No Refunds.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here

Santa Monica Pier Street Comedian Pepper Sprays Drunk Attacker



The street comedian who is always at the entrance to the Santa Monica Pier got into another confratation this weekend. This time a drunk man allegedly approached the performer's wife and she pepper sprayed him, then he came back again and then the performer repeatedly sprayed him.

Firemen, whowere returning from a call up the street, pulled over as the say the drunk guy stumble and fall down on Ocean Ave. He was treated as police arrived to investigate the ordeal.

SMPD Cookies with Cops



SMPD is heading to Junior Cookies on Main Street for an evening of cookies and conversation with our Santa Monica community.

Stop by, say hello, ask questions, and meet members of your Santa Monica Police Department in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

📅 Monday, May 4, 2026
⏰ 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Junior Cookies, 2726 Main Street

All are welcome. No RSVP required.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here

Historical Venice Cinco de Mayo Parade



The Venice Cinco de Mayo Parade happened on Saturday morning, May 2, 2026. Unlike the previous years, there was no street closures this time. Ipast years, the city had traffic officers and barricades closing off the parade route to traffic. There were no traffic officers or LAPD officers anywhere. Also, the city of LA and Council Woman Traci Park were usually featured as supporting the parade, neither had their names on anything promoting the parade.

The Brown Berets, some locals, and a vehicle from Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus helped to hold traffic for the parade.

Samba Takes Over Venice Beach



Samba Los Angeles brings the rhythm of Brazil to Venice Beach .

Pedal to the Playa Community Ride



Saturday, May 2 • 9 AM - 11 AM

A 7.5-mile ride from Marina del Rey to the Playa del Rey. The ride rolls through shopping boulevards, residential streets and scenic views.

We’re back at the beautiful Marina del Rey for the Pedal to the Playa Community Ride. Join us for this ride by the coast on an easy, no-drop pace starting at Venice & Abbot Kinney Station. The 7.5-mile round trip will take us from a vibrant shopping boulevard through welcoming residential neighborhoods and protected bike lanes on the waterfront.

Designed to be supportive and beginner-friendly, this ride is perfect for new riders, families, first-time city bike users, or anyone looking for a practical and enjoyable way to access coastal destinations and waterfront paths.

Throughout the ride, we’ll practice safe biking practices and connect with fellow riders. We'll highlight Metro Bike as a reliable option to enjoying scenic coastal bikeways, public spaces, and natural areas along the Westside shoreline.

For more info and to reserve a spot, Click Here

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Santa Monica Comics Company Celebrates Free Comic Book Day



FREE COMIC BOOK DAY is coming and we’re bringing the PRIZES!

Join us for a fun-filled day where you can score free comics AND get a chance to win awesome giveaways all day long including a $100 gift certificate!

FREE comics for all Prize raffles & giveaways Fun for fans of every age

It's happening at: Santa Monica Comics Company May 2nd, 11am to 4pm 11870 Santa Monica Blvd., #204, Los Angeles

Bring your friends, come celebrate comics and you might walk away a winner! Free Comic Book Day

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here

Rizzbot The Robot Menace hits Venice



Rizzbot, the world's first robot menace, tour the Venice Beach Boardwalk interacting with people, getting into a breakdance battle, and more..

Santa Monica International Jazz Festival Kick Off



The Santa Monica International Jazz Festival kicks off at Third Street Promenade on May 3 with a FREE event focused on jazz’s future, as high-quality young L.A.-based musicians – including Grammy nominated bassist Billy Mohler, magnetic KNOWER frontwoman Genevieve Artadi, and pianist, vocalist and producer Elijah Fox – take the stage. Also set to perform are emerging artists including players mentored by BroadStage Artist in Residence and Festival Artistic Director Stanley Clarke.

The Festival celebrates 100 years of John Coltrane,100 years of Miles Davis and 100 Years of Route 66.

Admission to the Promenade gig is absolutely free of charge

WHERE: Third Street Promenade, 1300 Block (between Arizona Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard),

WHEN: Sunday, May 3, at 1 p.m.

LINEUP:

1 p.m. Samohi Jazz Combo
1:35 p.m. Varad Sahasrabudhe
2:20 p.m. Aidan Farrell
3:05 p.m. Duffy x Uhlmann
3:50 p.m. Billy Mohler
4:35 p.m. Instant Alter
5:20 p.m. Elijah Fox
6:05 p.m. Genevieve Artadi

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here