Santa Monica College Manager Critically Injured in Campus Shooting; Suspect Found Dead

On the night of Monday, October 14, 2024, a Santa Monica College (SMC) Custodial Operations Manager was critically injured in a shooting at the Center for Media & Design (CMD) located on Stewart Street. The incident occurred at approximately 9:50 p.m. and has been described as an act of workplace violence.

Law enforcement officers from the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD), Santa Monica College Police Department (SMCPD), and the Santa Monica Fire Department swiftly responded to the scene, securing the campus and rendering aid. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where they remain in critical condition.

Following a prompt investigation, SMPD detectives identified Davon Durell Dean, an SMC employee, as the suspected shooter. Dean, who had a criminal record including arrests for attempted murder in 2011 and an assault with a deadly weapon in 2019, fled the scene after the shooting. His previous convictions, however, were for misdemeanor property crimes.

On the afternoon of October 15, officers from the Hawthorne Police Department located Dean’s vehicle near El Segundo Blvd. and Aviation Blvd. After a brief pursuit, officers deployed a pursuit intervention technique to stop the vehicle. Despite efforts from the Crisis Negotiations Team, Dean was found deceased inside his vehicle from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

SMCPD Chief Johnnie Adams addressed the community, stating, “As we try to make sense of this horrific act of workplace violence, the safety of our community is our primary focus. We are deeply grateful to all our law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly to apprehend the suspect.”

SMC Superintendent/President Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery expressed her condolences, urging the community to come together during this difficult time. “At this heartbreaking time, I urge us all to come together in kindness and compassion as we navigate this unspeakable tragedy,” Jeffery said. Counseling and emotional support will be provided for students and staff.

SMPD Chief Batista commended the work of the detectives involved in the case, highlighting their dedication to the safety of the Santa Monica community. "Our officers’ commitment remains paramount," Batista said.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Authorities confirmed there are no additional suspects, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

For further inquiries regarding the investigation, media can contact Lieutenant Erika Aklufi at Erika.Aklufi@santamonica.gov. Questions related to Santa Monica College should be directed to Grace Smith, Director of Public Information, at Smith_Grace@smc.edu.