Los Angeles Police Department detectives released a still image of Malik Preatto, a 27‑year‑old resident of Los Angeles, as the second suspect in the recent assault on a Danish tourist near Venice Beach. The department is asking the public to help locate Preatto and contact the LAPD with any tips.
Details of the incident
Video captured at the scene shows Preatto approaching the visitor, slapping him, then swatting an object from the tourist’s hand and preventing him from retrieving it. Investigators say Preatto also reached into the victim’s pocket. A second suspect, 25‑year‑old Aiden Shaw, was later seen striking the tourist, causing him to fall unconscious.
The tourist suffered a laceration to the right side of his head and was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries. Shaw surrendered to authorities a few days after the attack and is being held on a $50,000 bond on suspicion of felony battery, according to jail records.
Local officials respond
City Councilmember Traci Park, whose district includes Venice, called the assault “completely unacceptable” and said she is in direct communication with the LAPD. “As leadership changes in City Hall, this is another important reminder that public safety must remain a top priority,” Park said in a statement.
Mark Ryavec, president of the Venice Stakeholders Association, a neighborhood improvement group, told NBC Los Angeles that he was not surprised by the incident. “We’ve been seeing these kinds of assaults, and it’s not surprising to see them here around the Venice Pier,” Ryavec said, adding that some residents feel an “immunity” to commit crimes in the area.
Police appeal for community help
Detectives emphasized that community cooperation is essential to apprehend Preatto quickly. “Anyone with information about Preatto’s whereabouts should contact the LAPD,” the department’s statement read.
The release of the suspect’s image follows a broader effort by the LAPD to address rising violent incidents in popular tourist zones. Officials say they are increasing patrols and working with local businesses to improve safety for both residents and visitors.
What this means for Venice
Venice remains a vibrant destination for tourists, artists, and locals alike. The recent assault underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law‑enforcement and the community. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity and support ongoing public‑safety initiatives.
Authorities will continue to update the public as the investigation progresses and hope that the community’s assistance will lead to Preatto’s swift arrest.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
