Attempted Murder Arrest
August 10, 2023 9:59 AM
Santa Monica, CA – On August 9, 2023, at about 8:09 a.m., patrol officers responded to the Ocean Park Branch of the Santa Monica Public Library regarding a Check the Status call for service. A library employee tried to wake up a homeless male at the front doors and discovered he was badly injured.
The victim, a 41-year-old male, was found with blunt force trauma to his face and a swollen forehead. The unconscious victim was transported via ambulance to a local hospital. He is currently listed in critical condition and is expected to survive.
At approximately 12:35 p.m., detectives investigating the incident spotted a person of interest who was loitering in the front of the library. Upon contact with the suspect, he became uncooperative and threatening in his behavior. Additional responding officers deployed a taser after the subject attempted to assault uniformed officers.
The suspect, who is homeless, was booked for attempted murder, felony battery on a police officer, giving false name to a police officer, and resisting arrest.
In custody: Nathanael Roger Lavoie DOB: 04/15/83
Anyone with information related to this crime or suspect are encouraged to contact the
SMPD Investigations Division during business hours at (310) 458-8451 or the Watch
Commander 24-hours at (310) 458-8427.
Media Contact
Erika Aklufi
Lieutenant
Erika.Aklufi@santamonica.gov