Man charged with attempted murder after shooting officer and teens in Santa Monica

On June 22, 2023, a shooting incident occurred in Santa Monica, California, involving a police officer and two juveniles in a self-driving Waymo car. The shooting left a Santa Monica police officer injured when he approached the suspect, David John Hairston, who was recognized from a wanted bulletin. Hairston opened fire when the officer got closer, resulting in a bullet piercing through Officer Lucas Palmeira's hand. The police immediately initiated a manhunt for Hairston after he fled the scene. The officer was later transported to a local hospital, while the police warned the public not to approach the armed suspect as he was considered dangerous. A coordinated search was launched in downtown Santa Monica near Santa Monica Place, which was an active scene during the investigation. Reports confirmed the areas surrounding Santa Monica Place and its parking structures were temporarily closed as authorities diligently searched for the suspect. Approximately an hour after the shooting, Santa Monica Place was cleared, and residents were informed that shelter-in-place orders were lifted. Officers continued to have a strong presence in the area following the incident. Despite the extensive search efforts, the suspect managed to elude police until they received a significant tip about his location. Hairston was eventually apprehended and charged with three counts of attempted murder, including charges related to the earlier shooting of the two teenagers aged 14 and 16. The prosecution emphasized the seriousness of the crimes and the necessity of holding Hairston accountable for his actions, particularly for the violence against the victims and the police officer. If convicted on these charges, Hairston faces a potential maximum sentence of 104 years to life in prison, reflecting the gravity of the attacks and the nature of the violence inflicted upon the community. The Santa Monica community expressed concern regarding public safety following the shooting incidents. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Santa Monica Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, collaborated in the search for Hairston. The chief of police publicly thanked local residents who provided tips and information leading to the suspect's whereabouts. As investigations proceed, the community remains alert and engaged in ensuring safety and accountability for violent acts within their vicinity.