Homeless Man Charges Police After An Unrelated "Domestic Call." Police Shoot Him, Then Give Him CPR

On Saturday, August 22, 2026, at approximately 12:49 p.m. PST, a Santa Monica police officer fatally shot a man near the 1400 block of Ocean Avenue in Palisades Park.

Officers had responded to a reported domestic violence call in the park (an area known for significant homeless presence). While interviewing witnesses, an unrelated man armed with a knife charged toward them. He ignored repeated commands to drop the weapon and continued advancing. One officer fired a single shot, striking him.

Santa Monica Fire Department personnel provided emergency medical care at the scene. The man was transported to a hospital and pronounced deceased (around 1:49 p.m., per the police chief’s briefing). The involved officer was not injured, and no other members of the public were hurt. A “rather large” (or “large, kitchen-style”) knife was recovered.

Key details from officials (including a press conference by SMPD Chief Darrick Jacob):

The man was described as being in his mid-to-late 40s. There were indications he may have been homeless. He was not connected to the original domestic violence call. Body-worn camera footage and other video are being reviewed as part of the investigation. The scene was active into the evening as evidence was preserved; the public was asked to avoid the area.

Identity of the deceased:

The man’s name has not been publicly released. Per Chief Jacob, it will be released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office (Coroner) only after formal identification is complete and next of kin have been notified.

No further official updates on identity, the domestic violence call details, or bodycam release appeared in reporting through early August 23. SMPD has stated that additional information will be provided as the investigation continues. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Santa Monica Police Department.