Kayla Delise Mackie, a 27-year-old unhoused woman, has been charged with murder, attempted murder, assault with a semiautomatic firearm, and second-degree robbery in connection with the shooting death of 46-year-old music producer William James Edwards III in Santa Monica. The incident occurred on January 25, and Mackie was arrested the following day in West Los Angeles.
Who is Kayla Delise Mackie?
Prosecutors have revealed that Mackie is also linked to additional crimes in Los Angeles, including an armed robbery and an attempted homicide. The charges against her include multiple allegations of firearm use. Edwards, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, worked with artists like Travis Scott and Lil Cobaine. He was fatally shot while sitting in his parked car on 29th Street near Ocean Park Boulevard.
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Mackie pleaded not guilty to the charges on Tuesday and is set to appear in court at the Airport Branch Courthouse on March 21 for a hearing to determine if there is enough evidence for her to stand trial.
The Santa Monica Police Department located Mackie based on witness tips reporting her departure from the scene. At the time of the arrest, Mackie was experiencing homelessness.
The tragic incident has left the community in shock, with Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock expressing condolences to William Edwards’ family and friends. He commended the swift police work in apprehending the suspect and emphasized the city’s stance against all forms of violence, particularly gun violence.
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Friends of the victim described Edwards as a talented music producer and the father of two young boys. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information related to the fatal shooting is urged to contact Santa Monica Police Detective Ismael Tavera or Detective Sgt. Ryan Gradle.
