PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITY — Santa Monica detectives are asking for the public's help in tracking down a suspect who is believed to have attacked two people, including a Marine who suffered major injuries, while they were dancing at a local nightclub.
Police released a photo of the suspect Tuesday. He is described as a male white or Hispanic, mid to late 30s, around 6 feet tall and weighing 230 to 270 pounds with a shaved head, mustache and goatee. On the night of the alleged assault the suspect was wearing a black-and-white striped shirt and dark jeans.
Police said the suspect was accompanied by a female Hispanic or Asian, 28 to 32 years old, around 5 feet, 4 inches tall. She was last seen wearing a gold-colored shirt.
Police said the suspect assaulted the two victims on Feb. 22 around midnight. Police responded to the nightclub Zanzibar, located at 1301 Fifth Street, regarding an assault that just took place. Authorities said the victim, an active duty U.S. Marine, was dancing on the dance floor when, without provocation, the suspect punched the victim in the face.
The victim lost consciousness for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. When the victim's friend stepped between the suspect and the victim, he too was assaulted, police said. The suspect then fled southbound on Fifth Street.
The victim sustained major injuries to his head and face. He was transported to a local hospital and has since undergone several surgeries to repair the damage, police said.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective. Karen Thompson at (310) 458-8946, Sgt. Darrick Jacob at (310) 458-8460, or the SMPD watch commander at (310) 458-8495 if after normal business hours.
Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact We-Tip at (800) 78-CRIME (27643) or submit the tip online at www.wetip.com. Tipsters will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward, up to $1,000, if information provided leads to an arrest and conviction. People can also contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting www.lacrimestoppers.org.
kevinh@www.smdp.com
