Santa Monica, CA - A tragic incident unfolded today at Santa Monica Beach as authorities responded to a distress call concerning an individual in distress near Tower 17. Santa Monica Police Officers and the Santa Monica Fire Department rushed to the scene after receiving the report shortly after 11:00 a.m., May 27, 2023. Sadly, despite their swift arrival and efforts, Portia Kemp, a 35-year-old woman, was declared deceased upon their arrival.
According to the Santa Monica Police Department's Public Information Officer, preliminary investigations conducted by the authorities did not reveal any visible signs of drowning or physical trauma. In accordance with established protocols for public deaths, the Santa Monica Police Department requested the expertise of the Los Angeles County coroner, who arrived at 2:40 p.m.
Transporting Portia Kemp's body posed an unexpected challenge, as the Coroner's van was unable to navigate the thick sand. As a result, the Coroner's Office parked at the beach parking lot and required the assistance of Santa Monica Police Officers, who used their truck to escort them to the beach.
The adaptable Santa Monica Police Officers quickly coordinated their efforts to ensure a smooth transfer. With the Coroner's Office in tow, they overcame the logistical challenges presented by the sandy terrain and safely escorted them from the parking lot to the beach.
After a thorough investigation by the coroner, which included meticulous examination and analysis, Portia Kemp's body was carefully placed in a bag. Due to limitations with the Coroner's van, the officers used their truck to transport the body back to the parking lot, facilitating the subsequent transfer to the Coroner's van. These actions were carried out in adherence to established protocols to maintain the integrity of the investigation.
The coroner's comprehensive investigation, including toxicology tests, will provide more information about the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
The Santa Monica Police Department is committed to conducting a thorough follow-up investigation, considering any relevant findings from the coroner's report and toxicology results.
The collaboration between the Santa Monica Police Department and the Coroner's Office exemplifies law enforcement's commitment to following necessary procedures, even in the face of unforeseen circumstances. Despite the encountered challenges, the officers' dedication ensured the successful transportation of Portia Kemp's body, allowing the Coroner's Office to proceed with their examination and analysis.
As the investigation continues, Santa Monica Police detectives will carefully incorporate any relevant findings from the coroner's investigation, including toxicology results, into their follow-up inquiries. Their unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth behind this tragedy remains steadfast.
The obstacles faced during the transportation of Portia Kemp's body serve as a stark reminder of the diverse and unpredictable nature of police work. Law enforcement agencies are equipped to adapt to unexpected challenges, ensuring that necessary steps are taken to preserve the integrity of investigations.
The Santa Monica Police Department urges anyone with information related to this incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. If you possess any details that may contribute to a better understanding of this unfortunate event, please contact the Santa Monica Police Department at 310-458-8491.
UPDATE FROM FAMILY:
Dear compassionate supporters,
We appeal to you on behalf of Anthony "Eve" Kemp and his family, who are facing a difficult time. They kindly request your assistance in raising funds for the funeral arrangements and memorial service of Anthony's late daughter, Portia Kemp. Tragically, Portia's life was cut short at 36, leaving a profound void in the hearts of her loved ones. She was a devoted mother to her cherished daughter, Lyric.
As the Kemp family awaits the autopsy results, they are shattered by this heartbreaking loss and desire to provide Portia with a dignified farewell and memorial—an authentic tribute to celebrate her remarkable life.
Please visit the GoFundMe page to make a donation towards the funeral expenses: https://tinyurl.com/amvw7v2m . Your generous contribution, no matter the amount, will significantly impact and bring comfort to the grieving family.
If you are unable to donate, please share the GoFundMe page with your network to spread awareness and rally support. Your thoughts and prayers are also cherished during this time of immense grief.
Together, we can make a difference by providing comfort and assistance to those suffering in their darkest hours. Let us come together as a community and surround the Kemp family with love and compassion as they navigate this profound loss.