Santa Monica Police Department officers located a vehicle wanted by Los Angeles police Monday afternoon, leading to a traffic stop that ended with the driver being hospitalized for injuries sustained before the encounter.
The incident began at approximately 3:19 p.m. when SMPD personnel identified the wanted vehicle in the city using department resources. Officers attempted a traffic stop, but the driver initially failed to yield before ultimately stopping near 4th and Strand.
During the encounter, officers discovered the driver was suffering from an injury that was not the result of actions taken by SMPD personnel and is believed to have occurred prior to the traffic stop, according to police.
The Santa Monica Fire Department responded to the scene to render aid to the driver, who was transported to a local area hospital. The extent of the driver's injuries was not disclosed.
The Los Angeles Police Department is leading the investigation into the felony matter. SMPD officials said no further information is available from their department at this time.
Police emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the community related to this incident.
The nature of the felony investigation and the circumstances that led to the driver's pre-existing injuries remain unclear. LAPD has not released additional details about the case.
This incident highlights the cooperative efforts between neighboring law enforcement agencies in addressing criminal investigations that cross jurisdictional boundaries.
Edited by SMDP Staff