United for Hope: Santa Monica Mounted Police Escort ‘Out of the Darkness’ Walk for Suicide Prevention

On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Santa Monica Mounted Police Officers played a vital role in escorting participants of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's (AFSP) "Out of the Darkness Community Walk" through Palisades Park. The event drew hundreds of supporters, united in their shared mission to raise awareness and combat suicide.

The "Out of the Darkness" walks, now a fixture in cities across the U.S., have become a symbol of hope, promoting conversations about mental health and reducing stigma around suicide. Since its inception in 2004, the movement has empowered individuals to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Families, friends, and colleagues walked side-by-side, honoring those lost to suicide while supporting one another in their journeys toward healing and mental well-being.

AFSP remains at the forefront of suicide prevention efforts nationwide, focusing on public education, research, and advocacy. Their mission is clear: to create a world where mental health is better understood, and suicide is no longer a silent epidemic. These community walks serve as a platform for individuals affected by suicide to come together, raise awareness, and offer support. The hashtag #TogetherToFightSuicide has become a powerful rallying cry for participants, symbolizing the collective effort to address this pressing public health issue.

Through grassroots programs, fundraising for research, and community outreach, AFSP connects people from all walks of life, including those personally impacted by suicide, mental health professionals, educators, and leaders, creating a united front in the fight against suicide.

Fourteen-Year-Old Runaway Reveals Life on the Streets Just Days Before LAPD Custody

IIn a poignant interview posted today on the popular YouTube channel Soft White Underbelly, 14-year-old runaway Billy shared his harrowing journey to the streets. The interview comes just days before his custody by LAPD on October 14, 2024, as documented on Santa Monica Closeup. Born in Inglewood, California, Billy’s life was fraught with instability and trauma from a young age, moving frequently due to family issues until settling in Lancaster. His early childhood was marked by abuse and addiction within his family, leading to him being placed under the care of his aunt.

Billy detailed his experiences of living under his aunt's guardianship for a decade, a period that provided stability despite ongoing personal struggles. From habitual running away beginning at age seven to engaging in petty theft and fighting to protect his siblings, his actions reflected a tumultuous upbringing. His narrative took a darker turn as he recounted a severe incident of violence involving his sister, which resulted in police intervention and his subsequent detention in juvenile hall.

Describing his life as a series of escape attempts from various caregivers and group homes, Billy’s story is a stark reminder of the failings of the child welfare system to provide stable, supportive environments for vulnerable youth. His journey through homelessness introduced him to a community of skaters and eventually led him to Venice Beach, where he met Daisy, a local healer who took him under her wing. Daisy plans to support Billy through an emancipation process, aiming to provide him a semblance of stability and control over his life.

Throughout the interview, Billy expressed a mixture of resilience and resignation to the hardships he’s faced, revealing a deep-seated desire for normalcy and a chance at a better future. His story underscores the critical challenges faced by runaways and the importance of supportive community networks that can offer more than just temporary shelter, but a chance to heal and rebuild.

Tensions Flare as Homeless Items Are Thrown Away During Weekly Venice Beach Cleanup

Venice, Los Angeles – Friday, October 18, 2024 — As part of the ongoing weekly cleanup initiatives in Venice, a coordinated operation was conducted at Venice Beach by the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, LA County Beaches and Harbors, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. The effort focused on removing a homeless encampment to maintain public safety and cleanliness in the area. Los Angeles Police officers and Park Rangers were on-site to oversee the process, ensuring compliance with Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44, which prohibits tents in city parks to keep public spaces safe and accessible. Sanitation workers gave individuals camping along the beach 15 minutes to pack their belongings before the cleanup began. Items left behind were either disposed of or placed in storage for later retrieval. After clearing the encampment, the cleanup team moved on to other encampments, continuing their efforts along the beach. The multi-agency task force included the LAPD, Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, LA County Beaches and Harbors, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and a representative from Councilwoman Traci Park’s office. Workers in protective gear carefully sorted and removed hazardous and non-hazardous waste, highlighting the city’s ongoing commitment to improving public health and sanitation. LAPD officers ensured the cleanup complied with local regulations, but no citations were issued during the operation, reflecting the city's compassionate approach to addressing homelessness. This initiative is part of a broader city effort to balance public space maintenance with a compassionate response to homelessness. The absence of citations during the cleanup underscores the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions. These weekly cleanups are a critical component of Los Angeles’s strategy to address homelessness while maintaining safety and cleanliness in public areas. No citations were issued during this operation, highlighting the city’s commitment to supportive solutions over enforcement.

Tragic Accident at Santa Monica Beach: Suspected DUI Driver Kills Female Victim

Santa Monica Police Department’s Major Accident Response Team (MART) responded to a tragic incident on Santa Monica Beach early Friday morning, October 18, 2024. Authorities were called to the 1400 block of the beach following a report of a vehicle trapped in the sand. Upon arrival, harbor officers discovered an unconscious female victim, believed to be homeless, wedged beneath the vehicle. Despite efforts by the Santa Monica Fire Department to provide aid, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency crews used specialized equipment to lift the vehicle and retrieve her body.

The incident occurred late Thursday night, October 17, around 11:30 PM. The driver, identified as 21-year-old Yuyang Sun from Arcadia, CA, reportedly remained on the scene and was arrested after a DUI investigation. Witnesses stated that Sun had been driving his 2015 Infiniti SUV at high speeds, performing circles on the sand before striking the victim. He now faces charges including driving under the influence (23152(a) VC), reckless driving (23105 VC), and gross vehicular manslaughter (191.5(a) PC).

MART officers are continuing their investigation, and the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office has been notified. As of now, the identity of the female victim has not been released. Authorities are encouraging anyone with further information to contact the Santa Monica Police Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427.

Our thoughts are with the victim and her loved ones during this difficult time.

Stabbing Near 5th and Broadway Leaves Unhoused Man in Serious Condition

Santa Monica, CA – On Wednesday, October 16th, 2024, at approximately 7:00 p.m., Santa Monica Police officers responded to a call regarding an individual in need of medical assistance near 5th Court and Broadway. Upon arrival, officers found a homeless man suffering from a stab wound. Emergency responders from the Santa Monica Fire Department transported the individual to a local hospital, where he remains in serious but stable condition.

The suspect, described as a Black male between the ages of 20 and 25, with dreadlocks and a distinctive “FTP” tattoo on his face, remains at large. Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) detectives are currently reviewing nearby security footage and are requesting assistance from the public. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Watch Commander at (310) 458-8426.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in Santa Monica related to homelessness, substance abuse, and violent crime. The SMPD has vowed to increase patrols in the area, particularly through initiatives such as the Directed Action Response Team (DART) and the re-established Crime Impact Team (CIT). The department continues to prioritize public safety while addressing the root causes of crime in the community.

For more information or to report suspicious activities, residents are encouraged to contact SMPD’s 24/7 dispatcher at (310) 458-8491.

Police Oversee Venice Homeless Encampment Cleanup to Enforce City Regulations

Venice, Los Angeles – October 17, 2024 — As part of ongoing weekly cleanup initiatives in Venice, a coordinated operation was conducted on Main Street by the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc. The effort focused on the removal of a homeless encampment, aiming to maintain public safety and cleanliness in the area. Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers were present to ensure compliance with local regulations, specifically Los Angeles Municipal Code 63.44. This code prohibits the erection of tents in city parks to keep public spaces safe and accessible for all residents and visitors. Notably, no citations were issued during the incident, reflecting the city's compassionate approach toward addressing homelessness. The multi-agency operation included the LAPD, the Department of Public Works, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., and a homeless outreach consultant from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). Workers donned protective gear as they carefully separated hazardous from non-hazardous waste to ensure a thorough and safe cleanup. This initiative is part of the city's ongoing commitment to addressing homelessness while improving public health and sanitation in high-traffic areas. The operation underscores Los Angeles's focus on balancing the maintenance of public spaces with compassionate responses to homelessness. These weekly cleanups are a component of a larger city effort aimed at addressing homelessness while ensuring public safety. The absence of citations during the cleanup highlights the city's preference for supportive measures over punitive actions.

Santa Monica College Custodial Manager Dies from Shooting Injuries

Santa Monica, CA – The Santa Monica Police Department has confirmed that Felicia Hudson, a 54-year-old Custodial Operations Manager at Santa Monica College (SMC), has succumbed to injuries sustained during the October 14 shooting at the SMC Center for Media & Design. Hudson, originally from Newnan, Georgia, passed away at a local hospital on October 16 at approximately 5:00 p.m.

The suspected shooter, identified as Davon Durell Dean, an SMC custodian, was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after being apprehended near El Segundo Blvd. in Hawthorne on October 15. Dean had a history of prior arrests but no felony convictions.

In a statement, SMC Superintendent/President Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Hudson, who had served the college for nearly three decades. “We are deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic loss of our colleague Felicia Hudson, who served the college with dedication and heart. She was an irreplaceable member of our community,” said Dr. Jeffery. Crisis counseling services are being provided to students and staff as the community mourns.

The college has established the Felicia Hudson Legacy Fund in collaboration with her family to honor her memory. The ongoing investigation is led by the Santa Monica Police Department. No further suspects are involved, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

For further information, media inquiries can be directed to Lieutenant Erika Aklufi at the Santa Monica Police Department, and inquiries related to Santa Monica College should be directed to Grace Smith, Director of Public Information.

Updates will be shared through the college’s official channels.