Tensions Flare: Vendor Arrested in Alleged Assault Attempt on Venice Beach Boardwalk

On Sunday, October 13, 2024, Los Angeles Police officers responded to a reported altercation on the Venice Beach Boardwalk. According to witnesses, a dispute between a vendor and a local man escalated when the vendor allegedly stole a cane from the man's car, which was parked in the Venice Beach parking lot. When the man confronted the vendor, the suspect reportedly raised the cane as if to strike the man. In self-defense, the victim used pepper spray on the suspect. Following this, the suspect returned to his van in the parking lot and allegedly drove toward the victim, swerving as though attempting to hit him. The suspect then called the police to report being pepper sprayed. Los Angeles Fire Department personnel arrived to offer medical assistance, though the suspect declined treatment. LAPD officers conducted interviews with several witnesses and reviewed video footage showing the suspect's alleged attempt to run over the victim. The suspect was arrested and taken in for further questioning. Additionally, the suspect's dog was taken to a local shelter, where it can be picked up at a later date.