Suspect Arrested Following Shooting on Santa Monica Pier That Injured Two People

SANTA MONICA - A large fight on the Santa Monica Pier erupted into gunfire Sunday night, leaving two people with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds and prompting a swift arrest by Santa Monica police.The incident occurred at approximately 9:00 p.m. on March 15, 2026, when officers responded to reports of shots fired on the iconic pier following a brawl involving multiple individuals, according to the Santa Monica Police Department.

One victim sustained a gunshot wound to the arm and was transported to a local hospital after officers provided initial medical aid at the scene. A second person suffered a graze wound and also sought treatment at a local hospital. Detectives later identified that individual as the suspect in the shooting.

Jaysawn Williams, 18, of Rialto, was taken into custody after receiving medical treatment. He was booked into the Santa Monica Jail on charges of assault with a firearm (Penal Code 245(a)(2)) and grossly negligent discharge of a firearm (Penal Code 246.3(a)).

The identity of the other victim has not been released by authorities.The Santa Monica Police Department maintained a regular patrol presence on the pier, which allowed for a rapid response. The pier was temporarily closed during the investigation but has since reopened with normal operations resumed."Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Esteban Hernandez of the Santa Monica Police Department at [email protected] or the Watch Commander 24 hours a day at 310-458-8427," police said in a statement.The investigation remains ongoing. No further details on the circumstances leading to the fight or shooting have been released.