SMPD respond to Shots Fired, arrest homeless suspect in West Los Angeles
Santa Monica Police Department officers responded to a report of shots fired at approximately 10:25 AM on January 25th in the 2600 block of 29th Street in Santa Monica, as we previously reported. Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim, identified as 46-year-old William Edwards III, a resident of Los Angeles, seated in his parked vehicle. Edwards was transported to a local hospital in grave condition and succumbed to his injuries.
Witnesses observed the suspect leaving the scene and provided officers with her general direction of travel. SMPD Detectives worked diligently throughout the day to identify and locate the suspect. The individual, identified as Kayla Denise Mackey, 27 years old and currently experiencing homelessness, was apprehended this morning in West Los Angeles. The motive for the crime is still under investigation.
Mackey’s booking photo will be released in the coming days.
The Santa Monica Police Department appreciates the public’s assistance in this investigation. Anyone with information related to Kayla Denise Mackey or the incident is encouraged to contact Detective Burciaga at George.Burciaga@santamonica.gov, Detective Sergeant Gradle at Ryan.Gradle@santamonica.gov, or the Watch Commander (24 hours) at 310-458-8427.