SANTA MONICA—On January 26, Lt. Erika Aklufi of the Santa Monica Police Department indicated in an email to Canyon News that a suspect has been arrested for a fatal shooting that occurred on January 25.
The SMPD reported on January 25 at approximately 10:25 a.m., officers responded to a call of Shots Fired in the 2600 block of 29th Street in Santa Monica. Officers located the victim in the shooting seated in his parked vehicle. He was identified as William Edwards III, a 46-year-old male from Los Angeles. He was taken to a local hospital in grave condition where he later died.
Witnesses who saw the suspect leave the scene, gave officers with her general direction of travel. Detectives worked tirelessly throughout the day to identify and locate the suspect who was taken into custody on Friday, January 26 in West Los Angeles. A motive for the shooting is still under investigation.
Arrested for the shooting is Kayla Denise Mackey, 27, who the SMPD indicated was experiencing homelessness. Her booking photo is expected to be released in the coming days per Lt. Aklufi.
Further investigation revealed she was responsible for additional crimes in Los Angeles, including an armed robbery and an attempted homicide. On January 30, 2024, the Los Angeles County District Attorney filed a murder charge (187(a) PC) for the Santa Monica homicide as well as additional charges related to the Los Angeles incidents.
“With unwavering dedication, the SMPD team applied tireless effort and professionalism to every aspect of the criminal investigation. Their relentless pursuit of the facts, coupled with meticulous hard work, reflects a commitment to justice. Our officers take pride in knowing their diligence contributes to upholding the principles of law and order. In Santa Monica, public safety is foremost, and crime will not be tolerated in our community,” said SM Police Chief Ramon Batista.
“Last week’s senseless killing on 29th Street has left all of us shocked. My heart goes out to William’s family and friends, and my thoughts are with all who were affected by this tragic event. While nothing can take away the pain this incident has brought to our community, I am proud of the outstanding police work our officers showed to quickly apprehend the suspect and ensure she is brought to justice. I stand behind the strong message from Santa Monica Police: There is no place for any type of violence, particularly gun violence, in our city,” said Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock.
The SMPD is asking anyone with information related to Mackie or the shooting to contact Detective Burciaga at George.Burciaga@santamonica.gov, Detective Sergeant Gradle at Ryan.Gradle@santamonica.gov, or the Watch Commander (24 hours) at 310-458-8427.
