Heart Rending Collision in Brentwood: Pedestrian Struck at San Vicente & Darlington
Horrific Crash on San Vicente Raises
Renewed Concerns Over Pedestrian Safety
A tragic traffic collision on Monday, March 10 left a pedestrian dead after he was struck by a vehicle at the intersection of San Vicente Boulevard and Darlington Avenue in Brentwood, according to a witness report on NextDoor.
The incident occurred around 10:55 a.m. on March 10, 2025, in front of A.O.C. restaurant. A vehicle struck the man as he was crossing the street with his wife just ahead of him.
Good Samaritans performed CPR on the victim while waiting for emergency responders.
According to a follow-up report by a friend of the family, the victim was transported to UCLA Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries the following morning. He leaves behind a wife, two
sons, and four grandchildren. The family has asked for prayers for the family members and privacy.
Since this is an active police investigation, the family has also
requested that any people who witnessed the accident or who may have other information come forward to the West Los Angeles Police Station at (310) 5759402 or submit a tip anonymously at
Crimestoppers.
The accident has sparked renewed calls for increased pedestrian safety measures in the Brentwood area, especially in the San Vincente corridor.
Brentwood Weekly Crime Report: March 17, 2025 – March 23, 2025 With
Data from Senior Lead Officer Matthew Kirk
Crime went up from last week’s low tally but is still within the normal range. Most of the crimes were burglaries from motor vehicles, mostly thefts of property.
Burglary:
03-22-25 00:05 Hrs, 300 Block of N. Rockingham Ave, the suspects(s) forced open the rear sliding glass door and
removed the property. The property taken was handbags and a watch.
Robbery:
None Reported
ADW (Assault With Deadly Weapon):
None reported
BFMV (Burglary from motor vehicle)/ TFMV (Theft from Motor Vehicle)
03-16-25 19:30 Hrs / 03-17-25 09:10Hrs, 11600 Block of Montana Ave, suspects(s) smashed rear window of vehicle and removed property. Property taken were a suitcase, handbag, and tablet.
03-17-25, 05:00–05:30, 11600 Block of Darlington Ave, suspects(s) entered locked vehicle and removed property, including clothing.
03-20-25 19:00 Hrs, 11900 Block of Kiowa Ave, suspects(s) removed rear license plate from vehicle.
GTA (Grand Theft Auto
03-23-25 23:40 Hrs, 900 Block of Barrington Ave, the suspect entered the vehicle by unknown means and was confronted by the owner. The suspect fled without any property.
Hrs, 11900 Block of Kiowa Ave, a 2019 Hyundai Elantra was taken from the street. Theft: 03-22-25 1555 Hrs, 12000 Block of Wilshire Blvd, Suspect entered the store and removed food items. The suspect fled the location without attempting to pay for items.
03-20-25 19:00 Hrs / 03-21-25 19:00
Veterans and Activists Rally in Westwood Against Federal Budget Cuts
“We Fought for This Country, We’ll Fight Again”: Veterans Protest
DOGE
More than 1,500 demonstrators gathered in Westwood on Saturday to protest sweeping federal government cuts, including drastic reductions in staff at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and other agencies. The rally, which took place outside the federal building on Wilshire Boulevard, was part of a broader pushback against policies that critics say are undermining essential services and violating constitutional rights.
Among the protesters was Jesse Ugalde, a 74-year-old Vietnam War veteran who relies on the VA for his healthcare. Ugalde said he has already noticed a difference in services at the VA due to staff departures.
“Already, people are leaving,” Ugalde said. “I was told that they’re going to try to provide services, but it’s going to take longer.” He joined the demonstration to oppose President Donald Trump’s
push to reduce the size of the federal government, which has led to mass layoffs across multiple agencies.
“It’s not only the VA—there are other programs that we need desperately,” Ugalde said. “There’s no reason to do it this way. I fought for this country, and I’ll fight for it again.”
Protesters voiced outrage over the administration’s rapid restructuring of federal agencies, spearheaded by billionaire Elon Musk, who has been serving as an informal advisor on government efficiency. Musk’s advisory team, dubbed the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has overseen the termination of thousands of government employees, the freezing of billions in federal spending, and the near-total shutdown of agencies such as the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Department of Education.
“We are here because we are not going to let Trump, we’re not going to let Elon Musk, his co-president, or anybody else take the United States Constitution down,” Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles) told the crowd.
Many attendees carried signs calling for the protection of public services, veterans’ benefits, and civil liberties.
The rally also raised concerns over immigration policies.
Demonstrators also spoke out against the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, an Algerian citizen and former graduate student at Columbia University. Khalil, a pro-Palestinian activist and green card holder with no criminal record, is currently being held in immigration detention, a move that activists described as unjust and politically motivated.
The protest brought together local activists, leaders, and politicians, those politicians and leaders and included:
• U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles)
• U.S. Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Los Angeles)
• U.S. Rep. Laura Friedman (D-Glendale)
• California State Sen. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica)
• West Hollywood Mayor Chelsea Byers
• Aliyah Levin, President, American Federation of Government Employees, Local 2391
Brentwood Beat: Annual BHA Meeting Packs Em In
By Jeff Hall
The annual meeting of the Brentwood Homeowners Association (BHA) is not to be missed. Top officials from the City and County all show up, a tribute to BHA’s influence in Brentwood.
meeting,
The heroes of the LAFD were applauded – several times. Fire hydrants across LA are being repaired. Crime is down.
Communication is way UP in Brentwood, as BHA played a leading role in keeping Brentwood residents informed during the fire, reported Thelma Waxman. Homeless encampments have been reduced in number – not enough, but things are moving in a good direction, according to Mayor Bass.
There is clear excitement about the upcoming World Cup, Super Bowl and Olympics that will be coming to Los Angeles. The excitement might be more about the progress that will be made getting LA ready than about the games themselves. Fewer potholes, anyone?
The
held at Brentwood Middle School, was kicked off by BHA President Thelma Waxman. Despite the recent Palisades Fire, the mood was upbeat.
Traffic was the grayish-to-dark cloud hanging over the meeting. Traffic on Sunset is always bad, but cleanup and construction vehicles driving in and out of the Palisades could be with us for years, according to CD11 Councilmember Traci Park.
Park is pushing to get as much of this traffic as possible routed down PCH, she said.
Our neurosurgery virtuoso is now offering consultations in West LA.
As a professor and the associate chair of neurosurgical innovation at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, Dr. Cohen is often consulted for his second opinion by patients and other neurosurgeons alike. His experience is unparalleled as he has performed over 7,000 complex brain surgeries. His pioneering expertise and compassion is now closer than ever, in West LA.
Aaron Cohen-Gadol MD, MSc, MBA
L.A. District Attorney Brings Back the Death Penalty Despite Declining Violent Crime
Hochman’s Death Penalty Decision Faces Strong Resistance from Public Defenders
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman has announced a major shift in policy regarding the prosecution of special circumstance murder cases, reinstating the possibility of seeking the death penalty in Los Angeles County. The move, which reverses the previous administration’s blanket prohibition on capital punishment, has sparked strong opposition from the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office.
The most recent statistics released by the LAPD show that violent crime actually decreased in the years since 2020, including 2024. Governor Newsom ordered a moratorium on the death penalty in 2019 when he took office, and there is a standing court order that prohibits the use of the death penalty in the state as of 2006.
Under the new policy, prosecutors will now consider pursuing the death penalty only in “exceedingly rare” cases following a rigorous review process. The decision
will involve consultation with a Special Circumstances Committee, as well as input from the families of murder victims and defense counsel. Additionally, the standard for charging such cases will be elevated to “beyond a reasonable doubt” rather than the prior standard of probable cause.
“I remain unwaveringly committed to the comprehensive and thorough evaluation of every special circumstance murder case prosecuted in Los Angeles County,” Hochman stated. “In consultation with the murder victim’s survivors and with full input on the mitigating and aggravating factors of each case, we will ensure that the punishment sought is just, fair, fitting, and appropriate.”
Hochman emphasized that, in most cases, the District Attorney’s Office will instead pursue life without the possibility of parole as the primary sentencing alternative to capital punishment.
The decision to reinstate the death penalty has drawn sharp criticism from the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office, which argues that capital punishment is an outdated, racially biased, and fundamentally flawed system.
“The death penalty is a cruel and irreversible punishment that is racially biased and ineffective as a deterrent,” said Public Defender Ricardo Garcia. “This decision doubles down on a system that has disproportionately harmed the poor and
communities of color.”
Garcia pointed to the risk of wrongful convictions, noting that innocent individuals have been sentenced to death in the past.
“Even one time is too many to justify statesanctioned, intentional killing,” he added.
Beyond ethical concerns, Garcia also cited the financial burden of capital cases, which are significantly more costly than life imprisonment due to prolonged legal
proceedings, appeals, and incarceration expenses.
“Returning to the death penalty further exacerbates state and county economic challenges,” Garcia said. “The death penalty comes at a great cost to taxpayers with no impact on public safety. I urge DA Hochman to reconsider this decision and instead commit resources to programs proven to promote justice and reduce recidivism.”
BuildStrong is Leading the Effort to Rebuild the Pacific Palisades
The recent wildfires in the Pacific Palisades caused extensive property damage, leaving many residents unsure about how to move forward. BuildStrong, a construction and investment firm led by industry veterans Paul Kalt, Michael Bitton, and Jason Green, is stepping in to help homeowners rebuild and regain stability.
With more than a century of combined experience, the BuildStrong team has completed a wide range of residential and multi-family projects across Los Angeles. Their ties to the Pacific Palisades run deep,
and they see this effort as more than just another job.
“We’ve worked here for years and have personal connections to this area,” said Jason Green. “We can handle everything— from design and permits to construction—so residents don’t have to navigate this alone.”
Facing a disaster often means wrestling with complex insurance claims and municipal regulations. BuildStrong has taken on a role that goes beyond standard construction services by assisting homeowners with insurance negotiations. Having gone through the 1994 Northridge earthquake, Michael Bitton understands how confusing insurance processes can be.
“Homeowners aren’t always aware of what they’re entitled to,” he said. “Our private adjusters help ensure people get the resources they deserve, without endless back-and-forth.”
Beyond direct rebuilding efforts, BuildStrong has helped organize town hall meetings so residents can connect with architects, engineers, and insurance experts. These gatherings offer a place for neighbors to share concerns, receive credible information, and learn practical steps to move forward. Paul Kalt noted, “We want to remove as many obstacles as possible so people can focus on their families and lives.”
For homeowners in the Coastal Zone, BuildStrong’s experience with California Coastal Commission regulations is a considerable advantage.
“These requirements can be complicated,” said Kalt, “but we’ve navigated them before and know how to streamline the process.”
Although rebuilding after a disaster is never simple, BuildStrong aims to make it
more manageable by handling key logistics, from permit applications to final inspections.
“Recovery goes beyond constructing new homes,” Bitton said. “It’s about helping an entire community regain its footing.”
Residents seeking help with rebuilding, insurance claims, and other recovery services can visit buildstrongla.com for more information.
LA City Council Unanimously Approves
Motion for Fire Department Upgrades
Councilmember Park: ‘We Need a 21st-Century Fire Department’
The Los Angeles City Council has unanimously approved a motion to explore a proposed bond measure for the June 2026 election that would potentially provide funding for fire station maintenance and the construction of new fire stations to meet the city’s need for repairs of firefighting equipment and infrastructure.
NBC 4’s news chopper found a yard of unusable fire engines in January while the fires were raging. Reportedly, the equipment was not in use because the LAFD lacked the funds or maintenance workers needed to put the equipment and vehicles back into service.
Councilwoman Park said, “Simply put, we need a 21st-century fire department that can tackle 21st-century problems. Too many stations past their originally
intended life stamps. We have leaky roofs, broken staircases, and PFAS extractors that we can’t plug into the wall because we don’t have the right electrical equipment to support the equipment.” She added that Pacific Palisades has not had a new fire station added to the community since 1967.
The motion, introduced by City Councilmember Traci Park and cosponsored by Councilmember Monica Rodriguez, aims to address critical infrastructure needs within the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD).
Councilmembers John Lee and Imelda Padilla seconded the motion, reinforcing the urgency of investing in public safety facilities.
Under the motion, the City Administrative Officer (CAO), in collaboration with the Chief Legislative Analyst (CLA), City Attorney, Bureau of Contract Administration, and LAFD, has been directed to present recommendations within 60 days.
The report will outline the potential structure of a bond measure that would allocate funds for long-overdue fire station
the nest school is an intimate montessori preschool located in brentwood
contact us to learn more our program
website: thenestschool.org
email: hello@thenestschool.org
phone: (424) 256-2731
maintenance and the development of new stations designed to meet the department’s operational demands for the next 50 years.
However, the measure would not fund LAFD staffing, which is another issue.
After the destruction caused by the Palisades and Eaton Fires in January, better
funding and maintenance of fire equipment for the Los Angeles Fire Department has become a top priority for members of the LA City Council. Obviously, approval and passage of a bond measure would help the LAFD in general and in all parts of the city.
non-discrimination policy: the nest school admits students of any race, color, and national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, and other school-administered programs.
Coming Soon: Easter Extravaganza at Regent Santa Monica Beach Welcome to Urban Jungle
Book your Delectable Brunch, Easter Festivities
This Easter, step into a world of celebration and refined delight at Regent Santa Monica Beach.
Known for its perfect Santa Monica getaways, Regent Santa Monica Beach is a luxury resort, where the vibrant pulse of the City of Angels meets the Pacific Ocean. This beachfront oasis invites you to join its Easter festivities coming soon featuring a brunch inspired by the flavors of California’s coast.
From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 20, Regent Santa Monica Beach is hosting Easter Extravaganza & Brunch, where the elegance of the Jacaranda Ballroom meets the fresh, sunlit beauty of the Pacific Garden. Begin with an exquisite brunch experience, where flavors are crafted to indulge and inspire.
Then, let the festivities unfold — children will revel in the magic of an Easter egg hunt and a visit from the Easter Bunny himself, while adults relax with live music and savor unlimited mimosas
With sweeping ocean views and a spirit of joy in the air, this is Easter reimagined for children and adults — elevated,
effortless and truly unforgettable. Pricing is $180 per adult inclusive of unlimited mimosas, $85 for children under 12. Children 3 years old and under are complimentary.
Regent Santa Monica Beach is located at 1700 Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica. For more information on the hotel and amenities, visit SantaMonica. RegentHotels.com.
Immerse yourself in a sanctuary where nature’s tranquility meets the vibrancy of city life. Urban Jungle is more than a plant store it’s a communitycentered oasis bringing a lush slice of paradise to your urban lifestyle. Here, we passionately believe in the power of plants to transform spaces and elevate well-being.
School of Rock Students Shine in Winter Performance Despite Widespread Fires
Summer Camp Registration Opens Now
By Susan Payne
Wildfire devastation wreaked havoc in areas of Los Angeles this January with 29 deaths reported and over 55,000 acres of homes and structures destroyed, amounting between $250 and $275 billion in economic losses.
While the lives of families, children and communities were uprooted, School of Rock West LA offered support to its many families enrolled in the program: the music didn’t stop.
At the end of January, stage-ready students were nearing the end of the winter season, preparing for their end of season live show. On the night of the January 6, wind advisories became a red flag, and emergency protocols at the school were being solidified, said Justin Salmons, School of Rock West LA’s general manager. By the end of day on January 7, the school shut down an hour early for evacuations. Fires broke out, eventually reaching Eaton. School of Rock’s Venice, South Bay, Pasadena, Burbank and Santa Clarita also shut down the next two days for safety.
“My wife and I were glued to the TV. We were keeping an eye on the Palisades fire when it jumped into Santa Monica,” Salmons said. “By that Saturday, we reopened, but I wasn’t sure who was going to show up.”
Nearly all students came to the lessons that day.
“Many of them lost their houses, belongings and instruments, and schools, but they showed up for rehearsal. Minutes later, I heard music coming from the room. And seeing those kids smile, it felt normal for a second,” Salmons said.
Week after week, more students showed up. By the end of January, ahead of the final performance, all 60 kids in our performance program were ready to take stage at the Viper Room, some of whom had lost everything, but still wanted to play.
“We packed the Viper Room. Each band played for an hour and a half and in that moment, the kids shined like diamonds. It felt like everything we had gone through the last three weeks, for at least that day, didn’t happen. It was a glimmer of community, hope and optimism in the face of adversity.”
education.
“We heard more tragic stories and allowed members to take the time they needed to rebuild their lives. School of Rock isn’t just a place where you take a lesson and go home, we are building community and enriching lives through music and performance-based education.”
Since then, several School of Rock’s House Bands have held fundraising efforts to help provide support to families in need. Community efforts rounded up instrument donations for students to keep playing music, despite the chaos.
in love with music as it carries kids and people through every stage of their lives.
UPCOMING SCHOOL OF ROCK OPPORTUNITIES
As School of Rock nears the end of its Spring season, a new season will begin after May. School of Rock’s summer season goes from June to August, offering
As the fires eventually came to a halt, the Los Angeles community was starting to heal. For School of Rock students, this meant, pausing memberships if needed, or continuing to heal through music
There’s power in the way that music helps us when we’re emotionally vulnerable,” Salmons said.
SANTA MONICA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Dr. Nancy Greenstein, Chair; Dr. Sion Roy, Vice Chair; Dr. Luis Barrera Castañón; Anastasia Foster; Dr. Margaret Quiñones-Perez; Dr. Tom Peters; Rob Rader; Kathryn E. Jeffery, Ph.D., Superintendent/President Santa Monica College | 1900 Pico Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90405 | smc.edu
Photo by Jonathan Ng