Street Racing Claims Life of Elderly Man

Los Angeles: A hit and run driver, racing another vehicle, collided with a third vehicle whose driver died as a result of his injuries.

On Wednesday, November 1, 2006 around 4:15 p.m., a 1998 Ford Mustang and 2004 Dodge Neon were street racing southbound on Compton Avenue near 48th Place.

The Mustang collided with the rear of 69-year-old Javier Ruiz’s 2004 Toyota Corolla, sending it into the path of the speeding Neon, causing all three vehicles to spin out of control and crash.

Ruiz was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. He succumbed to his injuries on November 15, 2006.

The driver of the Neon was treated for injuries and later released.

The hit and run driver is described as a male Hispanic, black hair, brown eyes, 5’7", 19 to 20 years old. He was driving a red 1998 Ford Mustang, convertible with white interior, California license 4AVJ028.

Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact Central Traffic Division, Detective Felix Padilla or Detective Josephine Mapson at 213-972-1825 or 213-972-1853. After hours and on weekends, call the 24 hour toll free at 1-877-LAW-FULL (1-877-5293855)

Callers may remain anonymous.