60-Year-Old Man Killed in Hit and Run NR10577ap

Los Angeles:  The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Valley Traffic detectives are asking for the public’s help in locating the driver who fatally injured a 60-year-old male driver in Sun Valley.

On Friday, December 10, 2010, at about 6:30 p.m., a three car traffic collision occurred on Lankershim Boulevard south of Tuxford Street.  A white 2009 Chrysler mini-van, traveling in a northerly direction on Lankershim Boulevard crossed into opposing lanes of traffic, and collided head-on with a 1980 gold Chevrolet Chevette, fatally injuring the driver.  The Chevette was also hit from behind by a 1988 grey Toyota Tercel.

The driver of the Chevette was pronounced dead at scene by Los Angeles City Fire Department personnel.  His name has not yet been released pending notification of his family. No other injuries have been reported at this time.

Investigators are looking for the driver of the white mini-van who left the scene on foot without rendering help or providing identifying information as required by law. The driver of the Toyota, later identified as a 46-year-old Oscar Contreras, also left the scene in his car.  Contreras was arrested a short time later by police and booked for manslaughter and leaving the scene of a traffic collision. He is held in lieu of $50,000 bail.

The investigation is continuing and Valley Traffic detectives would like to talk to witnesses who may have observed the accident, or anyone with information about the identity or whereabouts of the driver.  He is described as a male white, 30 to 35 years of age, standing about 5 feet and 10 inches tall.  He has a thin build with a shaved head.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Valley Traffic Division Detective Krajchir at 818-644-8034 or 818-644-8000.   During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.  All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.”  Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.