WILSHIRE BLVD — Santa Monica police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect wanted in connection with an assault with a deadly weapon.
Police said Friday the victim is in critical condition and may not survive after he was hit in the head with a rock while eating a hot dog at the corner of Seventh Street and Wilshire Boulevard.
The suspect is described as a male, unknown race, 40 to 50 years of age, around 5 feet, 5 inches tall, with a thin build.
The assault occurred on Oct. 28 “in broad daylight” near a 7-Eleven convenience store, said SMPD Sgt. Richard Lewis.
“The victim was sitting at a bus stop enjoying a hot dog with a soda between his legs when this guy comes up from behind him and for no particular reason hit him on the right side of his head, essentially crushing his skull,” Lewis said.
The force of the blow caused the victim, who is homeless, to fall to the ground. He did mange to look up and see the suspect, who he believes is homeless as well. He saw the suspect walk westbound on Wilshire Boulevard with a large rock or stone in his hand. The victim was able to call 911 and report the crime.
He sustained major injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives at (310) 458-8937, Sgt. Ira Rutan at (310) 458-8959 or the SMDP (24 hours) at (310) 458-8495.
Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the We-Tip hotline at -800-78-CRIME (1-800-78-27463), or submit the tip online at www.wetip.com.Callers can also contact Crime Stoppers by either calling (800) 222-TIPS, texting from a mobile phone, or by visiting their website at www.lacrimestoppers.org.
Those providing tips can qualify for a $1,000 reward.
kevinh@www.smdp.com
