Braden Pontoli Missing Santa Monica CA: Musician Last Seen Near WeWork as Search Continues

Braden Pontoli, a California-based musician, composer, conductor and educator, has been reported missing after traveling to Santa Monica for an in-person job interview on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.

According to information shared by his partner and other community members, Pontoli was last seen at approximately 10 a.m. near or around a WeWork location in Santa Monica. He had left his home in Pasadena earlier that morning and reportedly contacted his partner after arriving in Santa Monica, confirming that he had reached the area safely.

Concern grew when Pontoli did not return home and stopped communicating. His partner, Tommy Lei, subsequently appealed to the public for help, emphasizing that the lack of communication was unusual for Pontoli. A missing-person report has been filed with the Santa Monica Police Department, with case number 26-90155 referenced in a community post.

Pontoli is described in reports as a musician and educator with a background in music education and composition. He studied at Baldwin Wallace University and was associated with the California Institute of the Arts’ MFA Performer-Composer Program. He has also worked as a choir director and educator, including with Claremont United Methodist Church.

At the time he was last seen, Pontoli was reportedly wearing a blue button-up shirt, black trousers and brown shoes. He was also believed to be driving a blue Nissan Kicks.

Friends, colleagues and members of the Santa Monica community have expressed concern while efforts continue to locate him. His loved ones are urging anyone who may have seen Pontoli or have information about his whereabouts to contact authorities.

As of the latest available reports, there has been no confirmed announcement that Braden Pontoli has died. The search remains focused on finding him and bringing him safely home.