Wrong-Way Driver Arrested for Failing to Stop for Police, Running Over Officer’s Foot

Incident Occurred on January 13 in Santa Monica

A wrong-way driver was arrested after he allegedly ran over a police officer’s foot with his car while forcing his way into a Palisades Fire evacuation area.

Driver’s Identity and Vehicle Revealed

Walter William Larkins, 37, a Malibu resident, was reportedly driving a green Toyota Highlander on the wrong side of the road on Ocean Avenue heading toward Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica at around 6:45 a.m. on January 13.

Inciting Incident and Confrontation with Police

Larkins was seen following National Guard vehicles toward an area that was closed to traffic and open to emergency vehicles only. A Santa Monica officer attempted to motion for Larkins to stop, but he ignored the request and continued driving through the checkpoint area, running over the officer’s foot as he fled.

Officer’s Injuries and Further Incident

The officer was transported to the hospital with a "soft tissue injury." Other officers were alerted to the breach, and the suspect was located through a network of fleet cameras (license plate readers).

Arrest and Charges

Police eventually spotted Larkins on the 2200 Block of Pico Boulevard and pulled him over. He was arrested for felony hit-and-run and several vehicle code violations.

Investigation Ongoing

The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Investigator Raleigh at Evan.Raleigh@santamonica.gov. The public can also call Santa Monica police’s non-emergency dispatch line at 310-458-8491 or the Watch Commander at 310-458-8427.

FAQs

• Who was the suspect in this incident?
  Walter William Larkins, 37, a Malibu resident, was the suspect.
• What was the nature of the injury sustained by the police officer?
  The officer suffered a "soft tissue injury" after being run over by the suspect’s vehicle.
• What were the charges filed against the suspect?
  Larkins was arrested for felony hit-and-run and several vehicle code violations.
• Is the investigation ongoing?
  Yes, the incident remains under investigation, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the authorities.