INSIDE
SMC to Present “Six Characters in Search of a Playwright” smmirror.com
October 11 - October 17, 2024 Volume CXXIII Issue 214
See Page 7
Santa Monica Police Officer Attacked in Unprovoked Knife Assault Outside Police Station Mayor Calls for Urgent Action on Public Safety in Social Media Statement One of the Santa Monica Police Department’s (SMPD) officers was the victim of an unprovoked assault with a knife on Saturday, October 5, according to a press release. The shocking incident occurred around 5:21 p.m. right in front of the police station. The officer was gathering information from a resident regarding an unrelated call when he was confronted by a man in his 30s at the station’s entrance. According to the police, the officer asked the new arrival to wait while he finished speaking with the resident. Without warning, the man pulled out a knife and attacked the officer, slashing and stabbing him. The officer immediately retreated, drawing his duty weapon as the assailant continued the attack. The officer moved around the corner of the building, where an officer-involved shooting occurred according to the press statement. SMPD officers rendered medical aid to the suspect until paramedics from the Santa Monica Fire Department arrived, but the suspect was pronounced dead at
the scene. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office is handling the case, and the Santa Monica Police Department is conducting an internal investigation to ensure proper procedures are followed. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office will also investigate the incident. Anyone with information regarding the attack is asked to contact the Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427, who is available 24 hours a day. The SMPD posted a social media update on Sunday about the officer’s condition, “We are pleased to announce that our officer has been released from the hospital and is now home, focusing on recovery. We are all grateful for his dedication to protecting our community and will do everything we can to help him and his family through the hard work of recovering from this attack. “This has been a challenging time, but the unwavering support from our residents has reminded us of the strength in unity. Our community thrives when we come together, and your encouragement has been a crucial part of the healing process. As we continue to support each other, we reaffirm our commitment to working hand-in-hand for a safer and stronger neighborhood. Together, we are more than a community—we are a team. Thank you for standing with us.” Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock also released a statement via video on social media on Sunday, in which he said, “One
of Santa Monica’s finest was placed in an untenable position Saturday afternoon in front of our public safety facility. Our veteran police officer was attacked and stabbed repeatedly in front of the city’s symbol of commitment to our communal safety. Our officer had to defend himself against an attacker who would not heed repeated commands to stop his attack. My thoughts and prayers go out to our officer, his family, and our entire police department for his speedy recovery.” Brock added, “This tragic incident
demonstrates the repeated calls by the residents of Santa Monica for an urgent commitment by all city leaders to prioritize the safety of all our residents and visitors, no matter their age. From our children to our seniors, ALL of us deserve safe streets in Santa Monica. We cannot continue to tolerate the lack of lawlessness caused by mental illness, drug abuse, and the lack of penalties in our county that continue to raise justifiable fear among the good residents of our city. This has to STOP, NOW!”
Socalo’s Pork Belly Guacamole Supports Childhood Cancer Fight with Every Bite A Portion of Proceeds Will Benefit Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation Socalo restaurant is extending its support for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) with a limited-time offer on its Pork Belly Guacamole, following this
past weekend’s successful fundraiser with Chef Susan Feniger. Through October 19, patrons can enjoy Socalo’s signature guacamole dish while also contributing to the fight against childhood cancer. For every Pork Belly Guacamole order, priced at $21.50, Socalo will donate $1 to ALSF. The proceeds will help provide resources to families affected by childhood cancer and support cancer research efforts. Feniger’s ongoing commitment to ALSF shows Socalo’s dedication to both delicious food and meaningful causes. The Pork Belly Guacamole is available for
a limited time, inviting guests to indulge in a flavorful dish that makes a difference. Located at 1920 Santa Monica Boulevard in Santa Monica, the restaurant’s Taco Tuesday menu is also available from 11:30 to 8:30 p.m. weekly. On social media, Chef Feninger said, “I was with the @socalorestaurant crew yesterday @lalovesalexs helping to raise over 1.7 million in the fight against childhood cancer! A really great day! If you missed the event you can still support by ordering our Crispy Pork Belly Guacamole at Socalo.”