Artashes Barsegyan Obituary, Death: Suspect ID’d in failed Santa Monica robbery that turned fatal

Artashes Barsegyan Obituary, Death – Authorities have identified a man who died following a failed robbery attempt in Santa Monica during a private after-hours business transaction. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed the deceased as 41-year-old Artashes Barsegyan. He succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a nearby hospital on Sunday night.

The incident unfolded on the evening of Sunday, May 18, around 9:30 p.m., when officers from the Santa Monica Police Department were called to the 1300 block of the popular Third Street Promenade. Responding to reports of an assault involving a deadly weapon, police quickly arrived at the scene of the closed business where the attempted robbery took place.

According to the police investigation, the business owner had arranged a private sale after hours with someone he knew personally, referred to by police as a “known associate.” However, what was expected to be a routine transaction quickly turned violent. A second man, allegedly working in tandem with the associate, entered the premises during the meeting.

Once inside, this second individual — later identified as Barsegyan — reportedly used a chemical irritant on the business owner, apparently in an attempt to incapacitate him. Authorities have not disclosed the specific type of chemical used but noted it was part of a robbery scheme orchestrated by the two men.

However, the plan did not go as intended. The business owner, who was legally carrying a firearm, responded to the attack by drawing his weapon and shooting Barsegyan. After being struck, Barsegyan was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment but was later pronounced dead.

The man who allegedly conspired with Barsegyan was identified by Santa Monica police detectives as 41-year-old Karen Melikyan of Los Angeles. He was unharmed during the incident and, according to authorities, cooperated with the police following the botched robbery.

Following their preliminary investigation, police arrested Melikyan on several serious charges. He is currently being held on suspicion of homicide, armed robbery, and conspiracy. His bail has been set at $2 million, reflecting the severity of the alleged crimes. Melikyan’s next scheduled court appearance is set for Thursday at the LAX Superior Courthouse located in the Westchester area of Los Angeles.

Law enforcement officials have emphasized that the shooting and attempted robbery appear to be an isolated event and that there is no continued threat to the surrounding Santa Monica community. The business owner, whose identity has not been released, has not been charged with any crime at this time. Police have confirmed that he lawfully possessed the firearm used in the shooting and acted in self-defense during what they believe was a targeted attack.

Investigators continue to review all aspects of the case, including the events leading up to the private meeting and the planning that allegedly took place between Melikyan and Barsegyan. Detectives are also working to determine if others may have been involved or aware of the robbery plan.

As part of their appeal to the public, Santa Monica Police have asked that anyone who may have information about the incident come forward. Individuals with relevant details, video footage, or who may have seen anything suspicious on the night of the robbery are encouraged to reach out.

Detective Martin Jauregui is leading the investigation and can be reached at 310-458-4852 or via email at Martin.Jauregui@santamonica.gov. Detective Chad Goodwin is also available at 310-458-8774 or Chad.Goodwin@santamonica.gov. Alternatively, the Santa Monica Police Department watch commander can be contacted at 310-458-8427.

The attempted robbery and resulting shooting have shaken some in the community, though police stress there is no broader danger. The incident underscores the risks business owners face, even in private transactions, and highlights the importance of maintaining situational awareness and security precautions.

Santa Monica Police have stated that further details will be released as the investigation progresses. Meanwhile, prosecutors are expected to review the case against Melikyan and determine formal charges based on the findings gathered by detectives.

This incident adds to a growing conversation around self-defense, legal firearm possession, and the unpredictable nature of private business transactions, especially those that occur outside regular hours or involve significant goods or cash exchanges.

As the legal proceedings move forward, all eyes will be on the court system to determine the outcome of the case involving Karen Melikyan, while investigators continue to close in on the full picture of how a robbery plan turned deadly in the heart of Santa Monica.