Additional Coverage:
A violent altercation involving around 20 individuals broke out near the Santa Monica Pier on Saturday afternoon, resulting in one man sustaining a stab wound, another potentially suffering from a broken ankle, and the arrest of five men.
The clash took place shortly after 2 p.m. in the vicinity of Tower 14, just to the north of the Pier.
Upon their arrival, responding officers discovered one individual with a stab injury, which was determined to be non-life-threatening. Another appeared to have sustained a broken ankle during the fight and was, along with the stabbing victim, transported to a local hospital for care.
The cause of the altercation remains undetermined, though witnesses told Eyewitness News that some of those engaged in the conflict seemed to be street vendors. This has yet to be verified by police.
Witness Jose Gutierrez recounted the chaos, noting an excess of a dozen participants using poles, flags, umbrellas, and even belts as improvised weapons in the melee.
Authorities have reported that of the five men arrested, three are facing charges of assault with a deadly weapon. Another individual was apprehended on charges of battery, and a fifth was arrested in connection with sexual battery.
Further details are sparse as the investigation continues. Community members with any relevant information are encouraged to reach out to the Santa Monica Police Department, either through the Watch Commander at 310-458-8427 or the non-emergency dispatch line at 310-458-8491.