The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) has released a Critical Incident Video documenting the October 5, 2024, attack on an officer and subsequent officer-involved shooting. The video provides a comprehensive overview of the events that unfolded in front of the department's headquarters, showcasing the dangerous split-second decisions officers face.
Key Events Leading to the Attack
The incident began at approximately 5:07 PM when the suspect, later identified as Deyaa Abdelhadi Halaibeh, entered a Target store on Broadway and stole a set of kitchen knives after assaulting an employee. Surveillance footage shows the suspect fleeing the scene with one knife concealed under his jacket.
Minutes later, Halaibeh arrived at the Santa Monica Police Station, where he summoned an officer by ringing the call button. Body-worn camera footage captured the officer’s attempt to de-escalate the situation before being violently attacked with the stolen 8-inch knife. Despite the officer’s efforts to evade, he was stabbed multiple times in the neck and shoulder before using his firearm to neutralize the threat.
Aftermath and Investigation
Responding officers and Santa Monica Harbor Guards provided immediate medical aid, but the suspect succumbed to his injuries. The wounded officer was rushed to a trauma center for treatment of severe injuries, and forensic evidence later revealed the extent of the attack, including damage to the officer’s protective vest from additional knife strikes.
Investigations are ongoing, with two parallel reviews underway:
- The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office is conducting an independent review to assess the legality of the officer’s use of deadly force.
- The SMPD’s Internal Affairs Division is performing a thorough administrative review to ensure departmental policies and procedures were followed.
Authorities are also examining the suspect’s background, including his mental health history and potential motives for targeting law enforcement.
Transparency and Community Engagement
The SMPD emphasized the need for transparency, releasing graphic footage and forensic evidence to provide context for the incident. Viewer discretion is strongly advised due to the violent nature of the content.
For more information, contact the SMPD or visit their official website. Updates will be shared as investigations continue. Anyone with additional details about the suspect or the events leading up to the attack is encouraged to reach out to SMPD detectives.
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