Police have arrested the gunman behind the January murder in Santa Monica, officials announced Sunday.
Santa Monica Police Station officials arrested the suspect, identified as 27-year-old Fabian Mendes of Inglewood on February 11th.
The fatal shooting took place on January 15th at about 1:30am in the 200 block of Broadway, according to the department.
Shortly before the shooting, the victim was described as a man in his 30s who was believed to be homeless, but was seen as a woman who was debated as an unidentified woman.
Mendes allegedly approached the victim and chased him into the middle of the street before shooting him in the back, authorities said.
Officers found the victim lying on the ground where he was declared dead, and Mendes fled the scene.
The victim’s identity was not immediately available.
Before being captured in February, police issued a warning to the public, warning Mendes, who was deemed armed and dangerous, to be careful.
Fabian Mendes tattoos can be seen in photos of their bookings from the Santa Monica Police Station. Fabian Mendes can be seen in booking photos from the Santa Monica Police Station. Fabian Mendes can be seen in surveillance camera images provided by the Santa Monica Police Station.
“If you have it, please don’t approach or get involved with the suspect,” police said. “Please call 9-1-1 safely.”
Details on where and how Mendes was arrested remain limited, but the department said it was through extensive and thorough investigation that the gunman was detained.
Mendes is charged with murder and is on $3 million bail.
Investigators are asking anyone who may have more information about this case to contact either DET. Reyes or isaac.reyes@santamonica.gov or det at 310-458-4852. Email Sergeant Lozano 310-458-8774 or alfonso.lozano@santamonica.gov.
The public can also call the watch commander at 310-458-8427.
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