The incident occurred on Sunday, March 15, 2026, around 9 p.m. when Santa Monica Police Department officers responded to reports of shots fired on the Santa Monica Pier. Preliminary information indicated that a large fight involving multiple individuals took place just before the gunfire erupted. Officers arrived quickly, due to a patrol presence on the pier, and provided immediate medical aid to one individual who had sustained a gunshot wound to the arm. This victim was then transported to a local hospital. A second individual, who suffered a graze wound, also sought medical treatment at a hospital. Detectives later determined that this second injured individual was the suspected shooter.
Suspect Apprehended and Charges Filed
The suspect was identified as Jaysawn Williams, an 18-year-old resident of Rialto, California. Williams was taken into custody after receiving medical treatment for his graze wound and was subsequently transported to the Santa Monica Jail. He was booked on charges including assault with a firearm and grossly negligent discharge of a firearm. The cause of the initial fight remains under investigation.
Pier Reopens After Incident
Following the shooting, portions of the pier were temporarily closed to allow for an investigation, including the collection of shell casings. However, the pier reopened to normal operations by Monday afternoon. Police emphasized their commitment to maintaining a visible presence on the pier to ensure the safety of visitors and residents. The Santa Monica Pier, a popular tourist destination that attracts approximately 10 million visitors annually, was the scene of considerable chaos as witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing people scramble for safety. Viral video footage of the incident circulated widely, documenting the panic that ensued.
