Police Arrest Gunman for Fatal Shooting of Man in Santa Monica

Suspect Identified as 27-Year-Old Fabian Mendez of Inglewood

Police arrested the gunman behind a January homicide in Santa Monica, officials announced Sunday. Officers with the Santa Monica Police Department arrested the suspect, identified as 27-year-old Fabian Mendez of Inglewood, on February 11.

Fatal Shooting Occurred on January 15

According to the department, the fatal shooting took place around 1:30 a.m. on January 15 in the 200 Block of Broadway. Shortly before the shooting, the victim, described only as a man in his 30s who is believed to be homeless, was seen arguing with an unidentified woman.

Gunman Chased Victim, Shot Him in the Back

Mendez allegedly approached the victim and chased him into the middle of the street before shooting him in the back, authorities said. Officers found the victim lying on the ground where he was pronounced dead, and Mendez fled the scene.

Victim’s Identity Not Released

The victim’s identity was not immediately made available.

Pursuit and Arrest

Before his capture in February, police issued an alert to the public, warning them to be on the lookout for Mendez, who was considered armed and dangerous. While the details remain limited on where or how Mendez was arrested, the department said it was through an extensive and thorough investigation that the gunman was taken into custody.

Charges and Bail

Mendez was charged with homicide and has a bail set at $3 million.

Investigative Efforts Continue

Investigators are asking anyone who may have further information on this case to contact either Det. Reyes at 310-458-4852 or email Isaac.Reyes@santamonica.gov or Det. Sergeant Lozano at 310-458-8774 or email Alfonso.Lozano@santamonica.gov. The public can also call the Watch Commander at 310-458-8427.

Conclusion

The Santa Monica Police Department’s swift and thorough investigation led to the arrest of Fabian Mendez, the suspect behind the fatal shooting of a man in January. The department’s efforts to keep the community informed and engaged in the investigation are commendable.

FAQs

• Who was arrested for the fatal shooting in Santa Monica?
  Fabian Mendez, a 27-year-old man from Inglewood
• When was the fatal shooting reported?
  January 15, around 1:30 a.m.
• What was the motive for the shooting?
  The motive is still unknown
• What is the current status of the case?
  Mendez is in custody and charged with homicide, with a bail set at $3 million
• How can I provide information to the investigation?
  Contact Det. Reyes, Det. Sergeant Lozano, or the Watch Commander at the numbers listed above.