URGENT UPDATE: A suspect has been arrested for attempted murder following a stabbing incident that left a restaurant worker hospitalized near the Santa Monica Pier. The suspect, identified as Malvin Walker, 24, was taken into custody on September 3, 2023, after police connected him to the violent attack.
Just before 5 p.m. on August 31, officers responded to emergency calls reporting a stabbing outside of a restaurant located on the 1600 block of Ocean Front Walk. Upon arrival, they found the male victim suffering from multiple stab wounds. The victim, an employee at Pier Pizza and Subs, was on his lunch break when he was attacked from behind and was subsequently rushed to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Witnesses reported that the assault occurred at the top of a pedestrian staircase connecting Ocean Front Walk to Appian Way. Police confirmed that there was no prior relationship between the suspect and the victim, intensifying the shocking nature of the attack.
After an intensive investigation, officers identified Walker and located him on the 1800 block of Ocean Front Walk, where he was apprehended. In addition to the attempted murder charge, Walker faces unrelated charges including felony vandalism and a $51,000 warrant for battery. He is currently in police custody, and authorities have not yet released his booking photo.
The Santa Monica Police Department is urging anyone who witnessed the stabbing or has additional information to come forward. Those with tips are encouraged to contact Detective Isaac Reyes at [email protected] or the Santa Monica Police Watch Commander at 310-458-8427.
This shocking incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety in popular tourist areas. As the investigation continues, community members are left grappling with the unexpected violence that unfolded just steps away from the bustling Santa Monica Pier. Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
