Monday afternoon incident results in injuries to a woman in her 70s and a man in his 50s.
By Sam Catanzaro
A visitor to Santa Monica Place mall sustained injuries on Monday afternoon after being hit by an individual who jumped from the shopping center’s third floor.
The Santa Monica Fire Department (SMFD) responded to a call for a “fall” at around 4 p.m. Upon arriving at the scene, paramedics discovered a man in his 50s who had fallen or jumped from the third-floor level near the Nordstrom store, landing on a woman in her 70s on the ground level.
Both individuals were treated for injuries and transported to a local trauma center. The man was alive upon arrival at the hospital, and the woman also suffered significant injuries. The Fire Captain on the scene stated that there were conflicting reports regarding the circumstances of the fall, and the exact cause has not yet been determined.
The Santa Monica Police Department is investigating the incident as a suicide, as video evidence reportedly shows the man jumping from the third floor. It is unclear whether the individuals were acquainted with each other at this time.
The public is encouraged to seek help from mental health professionals if they or their loved ones are struggling. Resources from the LA County Department of Mental Health are available at dmh.lacounty.gov, and individuals may call (800) 854-7771 or text LA to 741741 to speak with a professional.
