LOS FELIZ—Authorities arrested a trespasser on Sunday, July 6, in the neighborhood of A-list celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard. The news was first reported by TMZ about a man being arrested by authorities after finding a way through a gate in the exclusive neighborhood.

The trespasser tried to run from authorities before he was captured and detained. Bell and Shepard were not home at the time of the incident. Video from the Citizen App displayed the individual being detained by officers. No homes were broken into in the neighborhood at the time of the incident.

Last week the home of Jolie’s former husband, Brad Pitt was broken into in Los Feliz. The actor was in Tokyo, Japan at the time of the incident. Pitt’s home was broken into on June 25.

Details on what was stolen from Pitt’s property has not been disclosed to the public. The intruders smashed a window to gain access into the actor’s home. According to the Daily Mail, there has been more security detail at Pitt’s home since the incident.

Jolie previously appeared in the movie “Maria.” Pitt is currently appearing in the action-flick “F1: The Movie” alongside Damson Idris. Pitt won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the Quentin Tarantino film “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.”

By Danny Jones

WOODLAND HILLS—On Tuesday, July 1, at 8:29 p.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Valley Bureau responded to a call of a fire at a three-story townhome located at 21801 W. Burbank Boulevard. First responders arriving at the scene discovered fire on both the 2nd and 3rd stories as the first story was for parking only.

At 8:55 p.m., the LAFD website, alert page reported that the fire had escalated the status of the fire as a Greater Alarm Structure Fire. One pet was rescued by firefighters who were able to evaluate the animal as other firefighters prevented further spread of the fire.

The 9:00 p.m. update on the Knockdown Greater Alarm Structure Fire reported the fire was fully extinguished in 31 minutes. Reports indicated that the animal of an undetermined species was under evaluation.

In the 9:30 p.m. update, firefighters reported no humans were harmed in the fire. The pet rescued was confirmed to be a feline. LAFD reported that the “Cat was gently transferred to the care of the homeowner.” The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Sharon

HOLLYWOOD—On July 1, the Los Angeles Police Department West Traffic Division detectives reported that a fatal hit-and-run accident transpired and are looking for the driver.

The LAPD reported on June 29, at 9:03 p.m., a vehicle, described as a dark-colored Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon, was traveling eastbound on Sunset Boulevard when it struck a pedestrian walking southbound Sierra Bonita Avenue.

The suspect fled the scene and continued traveling eastbound on Sunset Boulevard and then southbound on Gardner Street. The driver failed to stop and identify themselves or render aid to the victim.

The Los Angeles Fire Department responded and pronounced the female victim dead at scene. The victim’s identity will not be released until next of kin has been notified. Speed may have played a factor in the collision.

Drivers are reminded if they are involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves. The public is reminded that as pedestrians, they should exercise caution when crossing streets, obey traffic lights, cross within marked crosswalks, and obey the rules of the road.

On April 15, 2015, the Los Angeles City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund. A reward of up to $50,000 is available to community members that provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Anyone with details about the incident is asked to contact LAPD West Traffic Detectives at 213-473-0234. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247).

Anyone wanting to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Danny Jones

SANTA MONICA—The city of Santa Monica will celebrate 150 years on July 14, 2025. A citywide celebration will transpire from July through December 2025.

This milestone marks 150 years since July 14, 1875, when the town of Santa Monica was first mapped out and the initial plots of land were sold.

“Santa Monica’s 150th anniversary is a powerful opportunity to reflect not only on our history and our progress, but also on the stories and voices that haven’t always been heard,” said Mayor Lana Negrete. “The next six months provide a chance for all of us to listen, learn and lead with compassion as we celebrate the people and stories that make Santa Monica special.”

According to a news release from the city’s website, over the past 150 years, the city has been a hub of innovation and collective civic engagement.

The official kickoff event for this months-long celebration will be the State of the City: A Celebration of Resilience and Growth on July 17, featuring a reception in the newly revived Miles Memorial Playhouse and free performances in Reed Park.

A community events calendar will showcase citywide happenings hosted by residents, artists, nonprofits and neighborhood organizations, all designed to honor the people, places and stories that have shaped Santa Monica over the past 150 years.

Highlights include multiple free events in parks citywide. Event details will be shared soon.

Community members can submit and host their own public events that align with the spirit of the anniversary. Click here to submit an event.

The city is offering microgrants ranging from $500 to $5,000 to support hosted community events that align with one or more of the anniversary goals:

-Celebrating community history and diversity
-Honoring achievement
-Addressing historical inequities
-Fostering connection

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted. Eligible applicants include:

-Artists and artist collectives
-Arts producers
-Nonprofits and community groups
-Neighborhood and business associations
-For-profit organizations based in Santa Monica
-City departments and staff affinity groups

“For 150 years, Santa Monica has been a beacon on the California coast,” SMTT President and CEO Misti Kerns said. “From the early days of the Pacific Electric Railway and Route 66 bringing visitors to the beach, to today’s vibrant blend of culture, wellness and innovation, our city has always embraced travelers from near and far. In fact, many of our residents first discovered Santa Monica as visitors and, like so many before them, fell in love with its spirit. We are proud to celebrate this milestone and look forward to continuing Santa Monica’s legacy as a world-class destination where all are welcome.”

For full details on events, microgrant applications and how to get involved, visit www.SantaMonica150.com.

By Danny Jones

SANTA MONICA—Starting Tuesday, July 1, the minimum wage in the city of Santa Monica increased from $17.27 per hour $17.81 per hour.

This amount increases annually by the published Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Works (CPI-W) for the Los Angeles metropolitan area (LA-Riverside-Orange County, CA) published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Santa Monica posts the new rates annually on or near January 1.

Hotel workers wage increases from $20.32 to $22.50 per hour on July 1.

The ordinance also includes service charges, first-time workers, enforcement provisions, and a limited exemption for employers providing transitional jobs. To apply for the Transitional Jobs exemption, email wagehelp@dcba.lacounty.gov. For other details, see the wage tables and other information on the city of Santa Monica website.

The State of California, the City and County of Los Angeles, and other jurisdictions also have minimum wage laws. Santa Monica employers must comply with all relevant laws. Where requirements conflict, the employer must follow the law that is most generous to employees.

By Danny Jones

SANTA MONICA—On June 26, the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) issued a new press release with details on the officer-involved shooting on June 25 that was connected to the WAYMO shooting on June 22.

The initial incident occurred on June 22, at approximately 11:38 p.m. when then unknown suspects approached a WAYMO vehicle on foot downtown and shot into the vehicle injuring two juvenile passengers.

The victims were transported to an area hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

On June 25, at approximately 1:00 p.m., an SMPD observed an individual matching the description of the suspect. He was later identified as 31-year-old David John Hairston, who was reportedly from the homeless community.

When the officer attempted to approach Hairston, he ran, leading the officer on a foot chase. He then turned and fired multiple shots striking and injuring the officer. The officer was transported to an area hospital where he was listed in stable condition.

At 4:20 p.m. SMPD received an anonymous tip from a community member who found an individual in Palisades Park that matched the description of the suspect. Approximately a dozen agencies worked in a joint effort to capture the suspect.

Officers responding to the call were led on another foot pursuit that ended in the arrest of Hairston who was booked into the Santa Monica jail. Bail was set at $1,000,000.

According to SMPD, the case was presented Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office on June 27. The anticipated charges included but were not limited to: Attempted Murder of a peace officer, assault with a deadly weapon, two counts of attempted murder of the two juveniles in the WAYMO shooting on June 22, and firearms violation. 

On June 27, LA County District Attorney, Nathan Hochman issued a press release, the full text of which is posted on his webpage.

“David Hairston (dob 6/18/94) is charged in case 25ARCF01201 with three counts of attempted murder, one count of assault with a semiautomatic firearm upon a peace officer, two counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, and one count of shooting at an occupied motor vehicle”.

It also is alleged that Hairston committed the attempted murders willfully, deliberately and with premeditation, and that he personally and intentionally discharged a handgun.

At a scheduled arraignment hearing today, the defense declared doubt as to competency and criminal proceedings were suspended. A competency hearing is scheduled for July 14 in Dept. 203 of the Hollywood Courthouse. Bail was set by the court at $4 million.

If convicted as charged, Hairston faces a maximum sentence of 104 years to life in state prison. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Stephen Lonseth of LADA’s Crimes Against Peace Officers Division and investigated by the Santa Monica Police Department.

“Our hearts go out to Officer Palmeira and the two young victims and their families who were senselessly targeted during these attacks. Violence in our community, especially against our children and those who risk their lives to protect us, is unacceptable. We are committed to holding the suspect accountable.”

By Sharon

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced on June 29 that a total of 15 community members became graduates of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.

The students recently completed the 21-hour CERT training course hosted by the Malibu CERT Team in conjunction with the City’s Public Safety Department.

CERT is an acclaimed, nationwide program that empowers community members to help themselves and their neighbors during disasters. Volunteers are trained in basic first aid, fire suppression, and search and rescue so that they can provide emergency assistance to their neighbors.

According to the city of Malibu website, following a major disaster, professional first responders who provide fire and medical services may not be able to fully meet the demand for services. Factors such as communications failures, road blockages, and the number of victims, may prevent people from accessing the emergency services they have come to expect at a moment’s notice when 911 is called.

Individuals will need to rely on each other to meet immediate lifesaving and life-sustaining needs, particularly in isolated neighborhoods that may be cut off from main roads for a period of time.

The CERT program was developed in 1985 by the Los Angeles City Fire Department to provide basic training in safety and lifesaving skills to the general public. It has since been adopted and enhanced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Fire Academy. The course is now recognized nationwide, and over 50,000 citizens have been trained to date.

CERT classes contain the following modules:

-Disaster Preparedness
-Team Organization
-Medical Class #1
-Medical Class #2
-Disaster Psychology
-Fire Safety and Utility Controls
-Light Search and Rescue Operations
-Terrorism and CERT
-Course Review and Disaster Simulation Drill

To learn more visit: www.MalibuCity.org/CERT.

By Danny Jones

BEVERLY HILLS—On Saturday, June 28, the city of Beverly Hills announced a reminder on its Facebook page about commission vacancies. Applications are being accepted as the city searches for individuals who have lived in Beverly Hills (for at least two years); have leadership experience or specialized knowledge; and are ready to serve and collaborate.

There is currently two vacancies for the Arts and Culture Commission, as well as two vacancies in the Cultural Heritage Commission. One vacancy is slated to start on January 1, 2026, while the second vacancy will begin July 1, 2026.

There are two vacancies in the Recreation and Parks Commission, with the first vacancy starting upon appointment, with the second vacancy slated to begin on July 1, 2026. The deadline to apply for these commissions is Friday, July 11 at 5 p.m.

There is one vacancy each for the Community Charitable Foundation and Architectural and Design Review Commission. The term will begin upon appointment. The deadline to apply for these vacancies is on Friday, July 25 at 5 p.m.

Individuals who join the commissions will have an opportunity to: Influence key decisions; Represent your community; Make a lasting impact on the city of Beverly Hills.

Visit: www.beverlyhills.org/applyforacommission to learn more and apply.

For more details on the Commission positions call the City Clerk’s Office at (310) 285-2400 and/or to obtain the application form by mail or e-mail.

By Danny Jones

GRIFFITH PARK/HOLLYWOOD HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department had to rescue a hiker who needed assistance on Sunday, June 29.

The incident was reported at 5:30 p.m. where LAFD Air and Ground Response with L.A. Park Rangers to an ill adult male hiker on a remote section of the Wonder View Trail east of the Wisdom Tree in Griffith Park.

An LAFD Rescue Helicopter was lowered to a Flight Paramedic to medically assess and stabilize the patient. They were later hoisted along with the LAFD Flight Paramedic into the hovering helicopter for continuing in-flight care during direct air transport to an area hospital. No additional details about the incident have been disclosed to the public.

By Danny Jones

WEST HOLLYWOOD—The West Hollywood City Council Hart Park Ad-Hoc Subcommittee is hosting a meeting on Monday, June 30 to receive feedback on improvements at William S. Hart Park & Off-Leash Dog Area.

Such possible improvements include options for the surfacing of the Off-Leash Dog Area, including wood chips, decomposed granite, and alternatives to synthetic turf.

The meeting will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the West Hollywood City Hall 1st Floor Community Meeting Room, located at 8300 Santa Monica Boulevard.

Community members who want to provide public comment are asked to attend. E-mail comments on matters before the Hart Park Ad-Hoc Subcommittee may be sent to West Hollywood Project Architect Michael Barker at mbarker@weho.org before 2 p.m. on June 30.

Back in February 2025, the City’s Public Facilities, Recreation, and Infrastructure Commission; Older Adults Advisory Board; and Disabilities Advisory Board all received updates on the progress of the Hart Park Improvements Project.

The consultant team incorporated the West Hollywood City Council direction along with input and feedback from selected City Board and Commissions into a final schematic design. Key planned improvements at Hart Park in the current phase include:

-Upgrades to all pedestrian path-of-travel routes and site accessibility barrier-removal improvements in locations as identified in a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) Report;

-Redesign of the parking area to be fully accessible and multi-functional; and

-Reconfiguration of the off-leash dog area into one small and one large play area.

For more information about the Hart Park Improvements Project visit www.weho.org/city-government/city-manager/capital-projects.

By Danny Jones