The santa monica pier shooting erupted during a large fight at the Santa Monica Pier on Sunday night, leaving two people wounded and sending people running. Police responded at about 9 p. m. ET after shots were reported, provided medical aid at the scene, and transported both victims to a local hospital. On Monday in a public update, the Santa Monica Police Department said an 18-year-old man was arrested in connection with the gunfire.
What happened at the pier Sunday night
Santa Monica Police Department officers arrived after receiving reports of shots fired following a fight involving several people. At the scene, officers provided immediate medical aid to a person suffering a gunshot wound to the arm before that individual was transported to a hospital.
Police said a second person suffered a gunshot graze wound and was also taken to a local hospital. The cause of the fight was not immediately known, and police have not released additional details about what led to the confrontation beyond confirming it involved multiple people.
Witnesses described a sudden burst of chaos as the gunfire prompted people to scatter while officers rushed into the area. Police temporarily closed the pier while investigators worked, then later reopened it to normal operations.
Santa Monica Pier Shooting arrest and charges
On Monday, the Santa Monica Police Department announced the arrest of Jaysawn Williams, 18, of Rialto. Police said Williams was booked on suspicion of assault with a firearm and grossly negligent discharge of a firearm.
Investigators later determined that the second gunshot victim—the person with the graze wound—was the suspect, Williams. After receiving medical treatment, police said he was taken into custody and transported to the Santa Monica Jail.
The Santa Monica Police Department said it maintains a regular patrol presence on the pier and remains committed to ensuring the safety of residents and visitors.
Investigation status and possible restrictions
Police said the investigation is ongoing, and portions of the pier may be temporarily restricted while officers conduct follow-up work. No further details were immediately available in the most recent public statements.
Quick context on the location
The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most popular tourist sites in Los Angeles. Pacific Park, the pier’s theme park, has said the destination attracts around 10 million visitors a year.
What’s next
Authorities are continuing to investigate what sparked the large fight that preceded the gunfire and are expected to provide additional updates as more information is confirmed. For now, police say the pier has reopened to normal operations, even as the santa monica pier shooting remains under active review.
