By Lookout Staff

October 7, 2024 -- An officer stabbed outside police headquarters Saturday is recovering, while the incident that led to the fatal shooting of his assailant is being investigated, Police officials said Monday.

The identity and background of the attacker, who was fatally shot by the officer after stabbing him several times, will be released "in the coming days," officials said.

The subject, who died at the scene, was described by police as "a male in his 30s."

The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office is investigating the death, and an internal investigation by the Police Department is "ongoing and active," said SMPD spokesperson Lt. Erika Aklufi.

"Our goal in the coming days is to issue a release identifying the subject, including any criminal history and housing status, as well as providing more information about the incident," Aklufi said.

The officer was treated at the hospital and released, and is recovering at home, she said.

"We want to extend our gratitude to the doctors and nurses who cared for our officer and got him onto the road to recovery," Aklufi wrote in a press release Monday.

"We also wish to acknowledge our community’s solidarity and concern they have shown to all the members of our department.

"Their collective support has been a source of strength for us, and it reinforces the importance of partnership and compassion between public safety and the community as we work to maintain Santa Monica’s safety and vitality."

The "unprovoked attack" took place late Saturday afternoon as the officer was standing at the front doors of the police station next to City Hall when he was confronted by the subject ("Santa Monica Officer Fatally Shoots Attacker," October 5, 2024).

The assailant stabbed the officer several times before being shot, police said. The officer's identity has not been released.

"This incident has strengthened our resolve to serve and protect even as it reminds us of the daily risks we face in the line of duty," the press release said.

"It also reminds us of our dedication to ensure a safe environment for our residents and businesses to thrive."

Additional updates will be issued as soon as they are available, Aklufi said.