SMPD Investigates Fatal Shooting During Attempted Robbery
May 19, 2025 5:33 PM
General Information:
Date of Incident: Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 9:30p.m.
Type of Incident: Attempted Robbery; Shooting
Location: 1300 Block of 3rd St. Promenade
Arrest: Karen Melikyan, male, 41-years-old, DOB 4/8/1984; Hollywood area resident
Charges: Homicide 187(a) PC, Robbery 211 PC & Conspiracy 182(a)(1) PC
Deceased Suspect: Awaiting Notifications to Next of Kin
On Sunday, May 18, 2025, at approximately 9:30 PM, Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) officers responded within two minutes to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon at a business in the 1300 block of 3rd Street Promenade.
The preliminary investigation revealed that the business owner was conducting a private, after-hours sale with a known associate when a second individual—conspiring with the known associate—entered the closed store and sprayed the victim with a chemical irritant. A struggle followed, and the victim, who was in legal possession of a firearm, shot the intruder. The suspect was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The associate, who coordinated the meeting, Karen Melikyan, was detained at the scene and later arrested in connection with the attempted robbery. He has since been charged with homicide, armed robbery, and conspiracy.
The victim (store owner) was not injured and is cooperating fully with investigators. Based on the evidence gathered, detectives believe this was a targeted and isolated incident involving individuals known to one another. There is no ongoing threat to the community.
The investigation remains active. Anyone with information about this incident, is encouraged to contact Det. Jauregui (Martin.Jauregui@santamonica.gov) at (310) 458-4852, Detective Sergeant Goodwin (Chad.Goodwin@santamonica.gov) at (310) 458-8774, or the Watch Commander 24 hours a day at (310) 458-8427.
Media Contact
Lewis Gilmour
Lieutenant
Lewis.Gilmour@santamonica.gov
