Individual Taken into Custody in Santa Monica Incident Involving Hit-and-Run That Resulted in the Deaths of CEO Brad Lipshy and Maura Cohen

 Authorities have detained 38-year-old Alex Kristopher Earl Kirksey in Chicago after a devastating hit-and-run incident in Santa Monica that claimed the lives of two pedestrians and caused severe injuries to two others. The arrest, occurring nearly two weeks after the October 24 collision on Wilshire Boulevard, has provided a sense of closure for the grief-stricken families and the community at large.

Law enforcement discovered Kirksey in proximity to a transit hub in Chicago following a thorough investigation that traversed multiple jurisdictions. Santa Monica Police reported that the suspect took extensive measures to elude capture, fleeing California shortly after the incident and attempting to hide both his digital footprint and physical whereabouts.

The car that was involved in the deadly incident was rented through an internet platform, though it was not directly rented by Kirksey himself. Investigators gathered essential evidence, which included digital records and communication logs, leading them to the suspect's location. This detailed investigative effort, along with cooperation among various agencies, ultimately culminated in Kirksey’s arrest.

He is now facing serious allegations, including two counts of vehicular manslaughter, two counts of felony hit-and-run causing injury, and one count of reckless driving. Moreover, authorities are probing the individual who initially rented the vehicle, as there are indications that she may have aided Kirksey in his escape from the state after the incident. Her potential role is currently being evaluated by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

The accident resulted in the deaths of Brad Lipshy, a prominent CEO in the event planning field, and 61-year-old Maura Cohen, leaving the Santa Monica community in grief.

Interim Police Chief Darrick Jacob praised the investigative team for their dedication, stating, “While nothing can reverse the suffering this tragedy caused, this signifies a vital step towards justice for the victims and their loved ones.”

The Santa Monica Police Department continues to urge anyone with additional information to step forward as the investigation unfolds.