By Lookout Staff

April 31, 2013 -- Police are looking for a man who punched and knocked out a U.S. Marine dancing at a Downtown Santa Monica nightclub shortly before midnight on February 22.

The assault, which resulted in great bodily injury, took place at 11:50 p.m. on the dance floor of the Zanzibar, 1301 5th Street, a popular night spot that offers an eclectic lineup of live bands.

“A preliminary investigation revealed the victim was dancing on the dance floor when, without provocation, the suspect punched the victim in the face,” said Sgt. Richard Lewis, the Police Department spokesman. 

“When the victim’s friend stepped between the suspect and the victim, the suspect assaulted him,” he said.

The victim -- who lost consciousness for approximately 10 to 15 minutes -- sustained major injuries to his head and face, Lewis said.

He was transported to a local hospital, where he underwent several surgeries in an attempt to repair the damage, according to police.   

After the assault, the suspect fled southbound on 5th street, Lewis said. 

Man thought to be suspect of assault on Marine.

The suspect is described as a white or Hispanic male in his mid to late 30s weighing between 230 and 270 pounds with a shaved head, mustache and goatee.

On the night of the assault, the suspect was wearing a black and white striped shirt and dark jeans, police said. 
 
He was accompanied by a Hispanic or Asian woman between 28 to 32 years of age, standing 5’2” to 5’4” tall with medium build and wearing a gold-colored shirt, police said. The woman has not yet been identified. 
 
Those who have information should call Detective Karen Thompson at 310.458.8946; Sergeant Darrick Jacob at 310.458-8460, or the Santa Monica Police Department (24 hours) at 310.458.8495.
 
Those who wish to remain anonymous can call WE Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (1-800-78-27643), or submit the tip online at www.wetip.com. Those who provide information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.
 
Anonymous tipsters can also contact Crime Stoppers by either calling (800) 222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting their website at www.lacrimestoppers.org. To text an anonymous tip to crime stoppers, view their webpage for detailed instructions.  If the information leads to an arrest, the tipster is eligible to receive a reward up to $1,000.