Murder Charge Filed After Fatal Wilshire–San Vicente Attack

Beverly Hills police have confirmed that a January 16 assault near Wilshire Boulevard and San Vicente Boulevard has resulted in the victim’s death, escalating the case to a homicide investigation.

The incident occurred at approximately 12:42 p.m., when officers received multiple 911 calls reporting an individual attacking another person with a weapon. Patrol units arrived within two minutes and established a containment area as the situation unfolded.

Investigators determined that the suspect and the victim were involved in a verbal altercation. During the confrontation, the suspect struck the victim multiple times with a metal object before entering a vehicle and driving into the victim, running him over.

The suspect fled to a nearby building but was quickly located and detained by responding officers. The victim was transported to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where medical staff attempted extensive life-saving measures. Despite those efforts, the victim later died from the injuries sustained in the attack.

Police identified the suspect as Christopher Cornelius, 54, of San Bernardino. On January 21, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed one count of murder against Cornelius. He has entered a plea of not guilty.

Based on special circumstances alleged in the case, the court ordered Cornelius to remain in custody without bail. If convicted as charged, he faces a potential sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty.

The defendant’s next court appearance is scheduled for February 26, 2026, at the LAX Courthouse.

Beverly Hills police continue to seek information related to the case and are urging anyone with additional details to contact the department.