Tragic Shooting at Santa Monica College Leaves Staff Member Critically Injured; Suspect Found Deceased After Pursuit

Santa Monica, Calif. — A shocking incident occurred at Santa Monica College on Monday night when a staff member shot and critically wounded a colleague at the institution’s Center for Media & Design, authorities said. The suspect, identified as Davon Durell Dean, 39, subsequently took his own life after a police pursuit in Hawthorne.

The victim, who serves as the college’s Custodial Operations Manager, is currently in critical condition at a local hospital following the late-night episode, which law enforcement is investigating as a case of workplace violence. The shooting took place around 9:50 p.m. at the college’s facility located at 1660 Stewart Street.

After the incident, Dean fled the scene, initiating a comprehensive manhunt involving the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD), the Santa Monica College Police Department, and other agencies. The search concluded in Hawthorne, where law enforcement found Dean’s vehicle and attempted to intercept him late Tuesday afternoon.

Police cornered Dean near the intersection of El Segundo Blvd. and Aviation Blvd. Using a pursuit intervention technique, officers managed to halt his vehicle. Despite efforts from the Hawthorne Police Department’s Crisis Negotiations Team to resolve the situation peacefully, Dean was discovered deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound within his car.

Investigations have revealed that Dean had a history that included arrests for severe offenses such as attempted murder in 2011. Despite these arrests, his convictions were limited to misdemeanor property crimes. Santa Monica College has policies requiring background checks and the disclosure of prior convictions for all employees, a practice meant to foster a safe educational environment.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, SMC Superintendent/President Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery expressed her deep sorrow and extended support services to the students and staff. Dr. Jeffery emphasized the availability of counseling and mental/emotional support to help the college community navigate through this challenging period. “At this heartbreaking time, I urge us all to come together in kindness and compassion,” she stated.

Due to the incident, SMC leadership has decided to close campuses until Oct. 20, 2024, transitioning all classes and operations to an online format temporarily.

With the investigation ongoing, police officials have assured the public that there are no additional suspects and no lingering threats related to this incident. Community members are urged to stay informed via official updates and support one another during this difficult time.