An 18-year-old named Jaysawn Williams was arrested following a shooting at Santa Monica Pier on March 16, 2026, around 9 p.m. The incident occurred during a large fight, resulting in two injuries, including the suspected shooter.
Witnesses reported chaos and panic as the shooting unfolded, with one bystander, Jenna Hannaford, describing the scene: “A lot of screaming. Everybody was screaming and running. It was crazy.” Another witness, Dennee, noted, “It appeared that the kids ran, the guy who shot, and then the police began to take control.”
One victim sustained a gunshot wound to the arm and was taken to a local hospital, while the second injured person, later identified as the shooter, suffered a graze wound. The police responded rapidly due to their regular patrol presence on the pier, which helped to manage the situation.
Jaysawn Williams has been booked on charges of assault with a firearm and grossly negligent discharge of a firearm. The investigation lasted several hours, involving a review of surveillance video to understand the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The cause of the fight that led to the shooting remains unconfirmed, as does the identity of the second injured person before being identified as the shooter. Witnesses reported hearing between four to six gunshots during the incident.
The Santa Monica Pier has since reopened, and normal operations have resumed. This shooting comes as tourists begin flocking to the beach for the annual spring break, raising concerns about safety in public spaces.
As the investigation continues, officials are working to gather more information about the events leading up to the shooting. The community is left shaken by the incident, with many expressing their dismay at the disruption of what was meant to be an enjoyable evening.
Details remain unconfirmed.
