Shooting in Santa Monica leaves man dead; suspect at large

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (KABC) -- Police are investigating a shooting in Santa Monica that left one man dead.

It was reported around 10:25 a.m. Thursday in the 2600 block of 29th Street at Ocean Park Boulevard.

It's unclear what prompted the shooting, but according to the Santa Monica Police Department, the victim was taken to a local hospital where he later died.

"We heard the gunshot and that was basically it," said witness Jason Coughlan. "We just assumed it was someone who got into a car accident or maybe a dumpster closing, but didn't assume anything until we saw the police cars driving around the street."

Eyewitness News was at the scene Thursday afternoon as the investigation was unfolding and captured detectives examining a black Mustang, which is believed to be the victim's vehicle.

"He definitely did not look good," said Alicia Slaughter, who works in the area. She said her manager heard the gunshot.

It's unclear if police are searching for a single suspect or multiple suspects but investigators say the person or persons responsible remain on the run.

"The safety of our community is our top priority and we are committed to maintaining a strong presence in the area," said SMPD in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The area near 29th Street was closed off as police continued their investigation.

Meanwhile, anyone with information the shooting is urged to contact authorities.