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Showing posts with label Santa Monica. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Santa Monica. Show all posts


Twins & Violins - Santa Monica Street Performers


A deceased whale drew public attention on the sand in Santa Monica on Monday, November 10, 2025, after the animal washed ashore and was later moved farther up the beach by city crews.

The carcass — estimated at roughly 20 feet in length — showed clear signs of advanced decomposition. According to observers at the scene, the whale appeared to have been dead for some time before surf and tide carried it in.

Multiple Southern California agencies collaborated on site to examine the animal and prepare it for transport. Officials said the effort involved California Wildlife Center, Marine Mammal Care Center Los Angeles, Pacific Marine Mammal Center, and Santa Monica agencies including Beaches and Harbors, maintenance crews, police, fire, and lifeguards.


Santa Monica Pier pays tribute to the cultural tradition of Día de los Muertos – Day of the Dead


A work truck carrying porta potties was stolen from the Travis Barker "Run Travis Run" 5K event on Ocean Ave. It sped south on Ocean from Arizona Ave till it hit a car at the corner of Moomat Ahiko Way. Ot then plowed the car out of it's way, turning into the crowded crosswalk. One lady jumped off her bike and the truck ran over it, dragging it underneath as it drove down the ramp to Pacific Coast Highway.

The truck crashed again in near Big Rock on PCH in Malibu. Highway Patrol and Sheriiff reponded to that crash, The suspect fled on foot, running into the ocean where he was taken into custody. Reports said he appeared to be naked.


The Santa Monica Police Department has made an arrest in connection with the fatal hit-and-run collision that occurred on Friday, October 24, 2025, in the 1300 block of Wilshire Boulevard, which resulted in the deaths of two pedestrians and serious injuries to two others.

Following the collision, the Major Accident Response Team (MART) assumed the lead on the investigation. Given the seriousness of the incident and the suspect’s efforts to evade arrest, detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) were brought in to assist.

Through extensive investigative work, detectives identified Alex Kristopher Earl Kirksey, born May 22, 1987, as the responsible driver. He has been charged by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office with vehicular manslaughter (192(c)(1) PC), felony hit-and-run resulting in injury (20001(b)(2) VC), and reckless driving (23103(a) VC). Evidence revealed that the involved vehicle had been rented through an online platform and that Kirksey took deliberate steps to avoid detection after the crash, including leaving the state in the days that followed.

The investigation also revealed that the person who rented the vehicle traveled to the scene after the collision, sought information about what occurred, and later assisted the suspect in leaving the state. The extent of that individual’s involvement remains under investigation and will be evaluated by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

These findings supported the issuance of search warrants, during which detectives recovered additional evidence — including contact information and electronic records — that helped determine Kirksey’s location.

Working with law enforcement partners in the Midwest, SMPD detectives tracked Kirksey to Chicago, Illinois. With the assistance of the Chicago Police Department, he was taken into custody at or near a transit center as he appeared to be attempting to flee further. Kirksey has since been extradited from Illinois and is currently in the custody of the Santa Monica Police Department.

“This arrest reflects the persistence and professionalism of our investigators, who worked tirelessly to identify and locate those responsible for this senseless act,” said Interim Chief Darrick Jacob. “While nothing can undo the pain this tragedy caused, this marks an important step toward justice for the victims and their families.”

The Santa Monica Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and all those affected by this tragedy.

“We are united with law enforcement in seeking justice for Maura Cohen and Brad Lipshy, who were 61 years old when they were tragically killed simply exiting a restaurant, and the two other victims who suffered critical injuries,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman. “I’m thankful to the Santa Monica Police Department for their thorough work on this ongoing investigation and our prosecutors who worked around the clock with investigators to ensure the defendant would be arrested and face his day in court. We have a message for criminals: You will not escape the law. Our office will continue to advocate for the victims as the case progresses through the criminal justice system.”

Anyone with additional information related to this case is urged to contact Traffic Investigator Lantz Lewis at (310) 458-2201 ext. 5311


The city of Santa Monica will join the U.S. Army for a Veterans Day ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. on the Santa Monica Pier.

The event will feature exciting performances, military demonstrations and a flyover, as well as remarks from senior military leaders and local elected officials. The ceremony, which will take place on the Pier’s west parking deck, is free and open to the public.



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

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




Ice at Santa Monica presented by Disney+ and Hulu will be opening on Friday, November 7, 2025, thier 17th season, for an unforgettable holiday season experience! Located in the heart of Santa Monica, our rink offers the unique opportunity to skate under the California sun by day and the twinkling stars by night.

Season Opening: Friday, November 7, 2025
Season Closing: Monday, January 19, 2026



Located at the corner of Arizona Avenue and 5th Street in Downtown Santa Monica.

Nearly 8,000 square feet of shimmering ice with a 400-square-foot tot rink for the little ones.

For more info, Click Here

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


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


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.



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.



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.


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



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.



As part of the Day of the Dog Festival, the Westside VW Club's Classic VW Show on Main Street in Santa Monica.


Scenes from this Saturday's No Kings Rally in Santa Monica


Intense scene develops as a couple of Trump Supports visit the No Kings Rally in Santa Monica


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.



Checking out the Carlson Family Halloween Haunted House Spooktacular during the afternoon.



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.".


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.