Tense Encounter: Officer Stabbed Outside California Police Station by Knife-Wielding Suspect
A violent robbery and a brutal knife attack outside the Santa Monica Police HQ—details emerge on the officer’s struggle for survival. 🌐 #News #SantaMonicaCA #California #Crime
SANTA MONICA, CA – When danger strikes, split-second decisions can mean the difference between life and death. A California police officer was thrust into such a situation last month, facing down a knife-wielding suspect just steps from the police station. In an intense encounter, the officer’s swift response likely saved his life, proving once again the risks officers face every day to protect the community.
A recent bodycam video has revealed a tense and dangerous confrontation outside the Santa Monica Police Department headquarters, where a suspect wielding a knife attacked an officer. The footage shows the high-stakes moment that led to a deadly outcome, offering a chilling look at what officers face during life-threatening situations.
How the Stabbing Unfolded
The incident occurred last month in Santa Monica, California. In the bodycam footage, a man—later identified as Deyaa Abdelhadi Halaibeh—approaches the entrance of the police station with a knife in his hand. Without warning, Halaibeh pulls an 8-inch chef’s knife from his jacket and lunges at a nearby officer, striking him.
The officer immediately reacts, and a brief scuffle ensues. The suspect tries to flee the scene, but the officer gives chase. As Halaibeh runs, the officer fires three shots. The suspect drops to the ground but, surprisingly, gets back up. Despite commands to stay down, Halaibeh ignores the officer’s orders and continues to move. The officer fires four more shots, ultimately ending the confrontation and fatally wounding the suspect.
A Robbery Preceded the Attack
Authorities later linked Halaibeh to a robbery at a nearby Target store, which occurred just minutes before the attack on the officer. Surveillance footage from the store shows Halaibeh pushing a store employee to the ground before grabbing a box of kitchen knives and fleeing the scene. Police believe he used one of the stolen knives—a chef’s knife—to stab the officer just after leaving the store.
The officer, who was stabbed multiple times during the altercation, was rushed to the hospital but was later released after spending one night in care. He is expected to fully recover from his injuries.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | California
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
