Elderly Man's Death Ruled Homicide In Santa Monica: Police

SANTA MONICA, CA – The Santa Monica Police Department is asking the public for help with any information or witnesses related to a suspicious death in Santa Monica. SMPD is also looking to locate the next of kin or anyone that may have been in communication with the deceased.

On Jan. 1 at about 1:04 p.m., SMPD officers responded to a radio call for service in the 2300 block of 34th Street regarding an elderly male who appeared to be unconscious inside of his residence. Officers entered the home and discovered the man, since identified as 88-year-old John Hautz, deceased.

SMPD Detectives were notified and conducted a thorough investigation of the crime scene. A preliminary investigation revealed possible suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of Hautz, the SMPD press release said. The death has been classified as a homicide after a medical examination by the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office; the investigation is on-going.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Santa Monica Police Department at (310) 458-8449. Those who wish to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

Image via Santa Monica Police Department