Gunman at large after deadly Santa Monica shooting

Police are searching for a suspect after a man was found shot to death in Santa Monica. 

The suspect was identified as Fabian Mendez, according to the Santa Monica Police Department. 

The shooting occurred on Jan. 15 in the 200 Block of Broadway at around 1:30 a.m., police said. 

Shortly before the shooting, the victim, described only as a man in his 30s who is believed to be homeless, was seen arguing with an unidentified woman. 

Mendez allegedly approached the victim and chased him into the middle of the street before shooting him in the back, authorities said. 

Officers found the victim lying on the ground where he was pronounced dead. The suspect fled the scene and remains at large. He is considered armed and dangerous.

He is described as a Hispanic man standing 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing about 280 pounds. He has noticeable tattoos on his forearms including “Zamora” in large letters.

“If located, do not approach or engage the suspect,” police said. “Please call 9-1-1 when safe to do so.”

The victim’s identity will not be released pending notification of his next of kin.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have seen Mendez or knows his whereabouts to contact either Det. Reyes at 310-458-4852 or email Isaac.Reyes@santamonica.gov or Det. Sergeant Lozano at 310-458-8774 or email Alfonso.Lozano@santamonica.gov.

The public can also call the Watch Commander at 310-458-8427.