Critical Incident Video Released Following August 22, 2026 Officer-Involved Shooting

September 12, 2026 8:43 AM

SANTA MONICA, Calif.- The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) has released a Critical Incident Community Debriefing Video providing additional information, including body-worn-camera footage, about the August 22, 2026, fatal officer-involved shooting in Palisades Park near the 1400 block of Ocean Avenue.

The Critical Incident Community Debriefing Video provides an overview of the incident using video, audio and information collected during the preliminary investigation. The presentation reflects the evidence currently available and is intended to provide the public with additional context. Its release does not represent final findings or conclusions regarding the incident, which remains under investigation.

At approximately 12:49 p.m., SMPD officers responded to the area regarding a reported domestic violence incident. While officers were speaking with witnesses, a man who was not involved in the original call charged toward the officers while armed with a knife.

Officers repeatedly directed the man to drop the knife and attempted to create distance. The individual continued to advance, and one officer discharged their firearm, striking him.

Officers immediately began lifesaving measures. Santa Monica Fire Department personnel continued providing emergency medical care and transported the individual to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at approximately 1:49 p.m. No officers or other members of the public were injured. Multiple knives were recovered at the scene.

"Our officers answer calls for help knowing the circumstances can change in an instant. On August 22, they encountered an armed individual while assisting with an unrelated call," Police Chief Darrick Jacob said. "I recognize the lasting impact an incident like this can have on the officers and personnel who responded, and they have my support. When a life is lost during a police encounter, our responsibility to provide a clear and open account is especially important. Releasing this video is an important step in providing that account to our community."

"I am grateful for the courage our officers showed in the face of an armed threat and for the lifesaving efforts that followed," Mayor Caroline Torosis said. "Our officers are part of this community, and violence against them puts everyone around them at risk. Their safety is inseparable from the safety of the people they serve. The officers and personnel who responded that day deserve our gratitude and support for their bravery, compassion and commitment to Santa Monica."

California law requires the release of video and audio recordings related to a critical incident within 45 days, subject to limited statutory exceptions and extensions. SMPD releases Critical Incident Community Debriefing Videos as part of its commitment to transparency and to help the community better understand the circumstances surrounding significant uses of force.

VIEWER ADVISORY:The following video contains graphic content, including footage of a violent assault and intense audio that may be distressing to some viewers. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.

View the Critical Incident Community Debriefing Video

Previous Releases

· Officer Involved Shooting- Initial Press Release - August 22, 2026

· Officer Involved Shooting Update - August 24, 2026

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant video is asked to contact Sergeant George Burciaga at [email protected] or the SMPD Watch Commander at 310-458-8427.

Media Contact

Lewis Gilmour
Lieutenant
[email protected]

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