By Lookout Staff

October 5, 2024 -- A Santa Monica police officer was wounded in a knife attack outside the Public Safety building late Saturday afternoon before fatally shooting his assailant, according to police.

The incident took place at approximately 5:21 p.m. as the officer was standing at the front doors of the police station collecting information from a resident when he was confronted by a man in his 30s, police said.

"Our officer explained to the individual that he needed to wait while he spoke with the other party," said Lt. Erika Aklufi, the Police Department spokesperson.

"Without warning, the individual attacked the officer while pulling a knife from his clothing," Aklufi said. "The suspect slashed and stabbed the officer."

"The officer immediately moved away and armed himself with his duty weapon.

"The suspect followed the officer continuing the knife attack as the wounded officer retreated around the corner of the building where the officer involved shooting occurred," Aklufi said.

"Santa Monica officers rendered medical aid to the subject until Santa Monica Fire Department took over life support efforts. The subject was pronounced dead at the scene."

The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office responded to the scene, Aklufi said.

The Police Department is following protocol and conducting an internal investigation to ensure that policy and procedures were followed, she said.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office will also be investigating the incident.

Police closed off 4th Street between Broadway and Pico Boulevard and Olympic Drive between Main Street and the I-10 Freeway on-ramp while an investigation took place.

Anyone with information about this incident or suspect should call the Watch Commander desk 24 hours a day at (310) 458-8427.