SMPD Finds Woman 'Violently Attacked' In Her Car, In Search Of Suspect

SANTA MONICA, CA — In January, Santa Monica Police responded to a car crash and found a woman inside the car who looked like she had been "violently attacked" beforehand and had trouble remembering what happened, authorities announced Wednesday.

Officers said they responded to a report of a white Jeep Wrangler jumping a curb and smashing into a wall at the intersection of 17th and Olympic on Jan. 10 at 11:40 p.m. Officers found the woman in the car with significant injuries to her face with blood on her face, hands and body.

"Officers noticed that these injuries were not consistent with the accident. The female victim told officers she had trouble remembering several hours of the day, including how she sustained her injuries," SMPD said in a statement.

Based on the woman's injuries and the evidence in the car, detectives said they believed she was violently attacked inside the Jeep and are searching for a suspect in the felony assault incident.

Since the investigation began, detectives said no witnesses have come forward with information and they have had trouble locating any public or private video footage of the incident. SMPD is seeking witnesses who may have been in the area at the time of the incident.

Anyone who may have information was urged to contact detective Brian Spencer at 310-458-8420 or via email at brian.spencer@santamonica.gov. Witnesses can also call the Watch Commander, which is open 24 hours, at 310-458-8426