Bicyclist Struck and Killed by Drunk Driver NR16135ne

Los Angeles: On Saturday, April 23, 2016, at around 6:15 p.m., a fatal vehicle versus bicyclist traffic collision occurred at the intersection of Burlington Avenue and Temple Street in Rampart Area.

The collision occurred when Cruz Tzoc, 22 years of age and a resident of Los Angeles was driving northbound on Burlington Avenue at an estimated speed of 60 miles per hour. As Tzoc approached Temple Street, he lost control of his vehicle, struck a vehicle parked on Burlington Avenue, and continued northbound into the intersection at Temple Street. Just as Tzoc entered the intersection, he struck a bicyclist traveling eastbound on Temple Street.

Prior to the collision, Tzoc was seen driving at a high rate of speed just two blocks from the collision scene by an on-duty sergeant assigned to the Rampart Area. The sergeant attempted to catch up to Tzoc and momentarily lost sight of the vehicle. Shortly after, the sergeant heard the collision and saw the aftermath of the collision. At that point, the sergeant took Tzoc in custody.

Tzoc was found to be under the influence of alcohol at a level over twice the legal limit. He was booked for murder at the Metropolitan Detention Center.

The victim, a 27-year-old male, was pronounced dead at the scene. His name has not been released pending notification of next of kin.

The investigation is being conducted by Central Traffic Division Detectives. Anyone with information is asked to contact the LAPD Central Traffic Division Detectives at (213) 833-3713 or Detective Felix Padilla at (213) 833-3713 or the Central Traffic Division Watch Commander at (213) 833-3746. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers 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.