SANTA MONICA—An arrest was made in connection to a firebomb incident that transpired in Santa Monica on Sunday, January 19. Authorities arrested Korie Schmidt, 31, with possession of an explosive device.
Officers from the Santa Monica Police Department responded to a call made about 3 p.m. regarding a person throwing several Molotov cocktails into the streets near Santa Monica and Pico Boulevard. A Molotov cocktail is a basic incendiary device made by pouring flammable liquid into a bottle and stuffing the bottle with a rag. The rag is then lit and thrown to create a pool of fire once it breaks.
Officials discovered the suspect’s car near Pico Boulevard and Centinela Avenue Sunday afternoon. A traffic stop was conducted as officers searched the vehicle. Evidence was found that linked Schmidt to earlier reports.
The SMPD received reports of the same subject and vehicle over the weekend. Canyon News spoke to Lt. Candice Cobarrubias of the SMPD to inquire if prior reports were of the same nature, but she did not indicate if they were or not.
“As a precaution, as it is unknown what else may be in the disheveled car, LASD Bomb Squad was notified and is responding to render the vehicle safe. Investigators are working the case and more information will be forthcoming,” said Lt. Cobarrubias.
Lt. Cobarrubias informed Canyon News via email that Mr. Schmidt is still in the SMPD’s custody. He is expected in court on Wednesday, January 22.
