A homeless man, identified as David John Hairston II, 31, is in custody following a shooting incident in Santa Monica. Authorities are preparing to file attempted murder charges against him amid rising violence in the area, particularly affecting residents at the Edge.
Reports indicate that Hairston aimed to “ambush” a police officer at a busy pedestrian mall in the seaside city. Just days prior, he is alleged to have shot two teenagers who were in self-driving taxis, according to the Santa Monica Police Department.
Following a citywide manhunt, Hairston is expected to face charges for the attempted murder.
The shooting adds to a series of violent events in Santa Monica, including a recent arson case and the takeover of an apartment building by squatters.
The day after the shooting, an incident occurred in Brentwood, one of Los Angeles’ affluent neighborhoods, where a shirtless man assaulted a gardener, seen in footage from a doorbell camera.
Residents in the Viverly Grove area, near Beverly Hills, have raised concerns about a vacant apartment building that has reportedly been occupied by about 20 homeless individuals.
“It’s really terrifying. We’re just on edge until something is done,” said Anita Cavallo, a local resident, when speaking with ABC7.
Reports also suggest that one of the squatters has been starting fires in the building, prompting locals to intervene.
Cavallo expressed frustration about the lack of action from officials: “It seems like nobody has a clear solution. Everyone points fingers, but we’re left without guidance on where to seek help.”
In May, Governor Gavin Newsom urged city leaders to prohibit homeless encampments on public areas like sidewalks and parks.
