Gunman Shoots Officer at Santa Monica Mall, Linked to Earlier Attack on Teens in Driverless Taxi

Santa Monica, CA – A quiet afternoon at Santa Monica Place erupted in violence on Wednesday, June 25, when a man wanted in connection with a recent shooting opened fire on police, injuring an officer and triggering a large-scale manhunt.

The incident unfolded around 2 p.m. near the intersection of 4th Street and Colorado Avenue, as Santa Monica Police attempted to apprehend the suspect for his alleged involvement in a separate shooting that occurred just days earlier. That earlier attack took place Sunday night, when two teenagers were wounded while riding in a driverless Waymo taxi in the city. Both teens were hospitalized and are reportedly in stable condition.

During Wednesday’s attempted arrest, the suspect fired at officers, striking one officer in the hand. The wounded officer was transported to a local hospital and is expected to recover. The suspect fled the scene, prompting a heavy police response that included K9 units and lockdowns in parts of downtown Santa Monica. Though the mall was later cleared and shelter-in-place orders lifted, the suspect remained at large as of Wednesday afternoon.

Authorities have described the gunman as a Black male in his 30s, last seen wearing a dark jacket and black pants. He is considered armed and dangerous. Law enforcement is urging the public not to approach the suspect and to report any sightings to 911 immediately.

Multiple images of the man, including those taken near a nearby parking garage, have been released by the Santa Monica Police Department. Updates on the manhunt are being provided through the department’s official social media channels.

This latest act of public violence has left many in the community shaken. As investigations continue and police work to bring the suspect into custody, Santa Monica officials have expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation.

More details will be released as the situation develops.

Source: KTLA