SANTA MONICA—The Santa Monica Police Department is asking for the public’s help regarding a violent home invasion that transpired on Friday, February 23. At 3:30 a.m., the SMPD responded to a radio call for service about an “Unknown Trouble” at an apartment complex in the 1700 block of 5th Street. After arriving on the scene, officers found a female resident inside the unit suffering from significant injuries that included multiple stab wounds and lacerations from the attack. Santa Monica Fire Department Paramedics responded and treated the victim at the scene that was transported to a local hospital in stable condition. The victim is undergoing surgery and remains hospitalized.
Detectives from the SMPD arrived on the scene, and a preliminary investigation revealed the male suspect forced his way into the victim’s apartment while she was sleeping. The suspect grabbed a knife from the kitchen and demanded money and property from the victim. The suspect stabbed the victim in the arm and jumped on top of her, where a struggle ensued and the victim fought off the suspect. The suspect fled the apartment through the front door. He is described as an African American male, 25-30 years old. He was wearing a red beanie and dark colored camaflouged sweat pants.
Canyon News spoke to Lt. Saul Rodriguez of the SMPD via email about the incident. When asked rather the suspect stole any valuables from the victim, Lt. Rodriguez responded, “No. I am not aware of anything being taken.”
Lt. Rodriguez indicated that authorities did not have any new information from witnesses, but “We are working to gather additional surveillance photos and video.” Authorities do not suspect the victim and the suspect knew one another.
A search of the area led to the recovery of evidence in the 1500 block of 12th Street which led to an extensive perimeter search. SMPD’s SWAT and K9 Teams were activated. The suspect is believed to have suffered a significant cut to his hand. The suspect remains outstanding. Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Santa Monica Police Department at (310) 458-8491.
