Traffic Fatality Involving a Pedestrian NR09474ne

On September 26, 2009, at approximately 8:10 p.m., a California Highway Patrol (CHP) black and white patrol unit attempted to stop a 2002 Cadillac sedan traveling southbound 101 Fwy at Parkway Calabasas for a vehicle code violation. The driver, and only occupant of the Cadillac, refused to stop resulting in a vehicle pursuit. The violator exited the 101 Fwy at Topanga Canyon Boulevard to eastbound Ventura Boulevard. The violator made a "U" turn on Ventura Boulevard and drove the Cadillac westbound at a high rate of speed while being pursued by the CHP officer.

As the violator continued westbound on Ventura Boulevard and approached Don Pio Drive,a pedestrian was in the process of walking northbound Don Pio Drive, within the marked east crosswalk.  The violator struck the pedestrian with the Cadillac and fled from the location while being pursued by the CHP officer.  The pedestrian died at the scene.

The pursuit continued westbound to the 23600 block of Ventura Boulevard where the violator rear ended a 2008 Mazda Sport Utility Vehicle with four occupants inside.  The violator continued westbound on Ventura Boulevard when he opened fire on the CHP officer causing an officer involved shooting between the violator and the CHP officer.  Neither the violator nor the officer were injured.   

The violator continued driving westbound on Ventura Boulevard where he collided with a chain link fence just east of Valley Circle Boulevard on the south side of the street.  Kelly Keeler was taken to a local hospital for medical treatment and booked at Van Nuys Jail for 187 (A) PC- Murder and is being held without bail.  
 
The identification of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of the next of kin. The investigation is being handled by Robbery Homicide Division and Valley Traffic Division investigators.  

Anyone who may have witnessed, or have information on this incident, is asked to contact the Los Angeles Police Department at 1-877-LAPD 247 (1-877-527-3247).  For further information contact Lt. Tappan, RHD, at 213-485-2531 or Detective III Bustos, VTD Detectives, at 818-644-8021.