Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash Involving Children – NR23172ti

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department South Traffic detectives are investigating the circumstances of a fatal hit-and-run traffic collision involving a family of four.

On June 20, 2023, around 7:45 p.m., officers responded to a radio call of a traffic collision which occurred at the intersection of Main Street & Colden Avenue.  The investigation revealed that the suspect’s vehicle, traveling northbound Main Street at a high rate of speed ran a red light, and collided into the victim’s vehicle.  The victim’s vehicle was occupied by a 32-year-old mother, her two children, a 14-year-old, a 5-year-old, and her 17-year-old niece.

The Los Angeles Fire Department responded and transported all victims to a local hospital.  The 17-year-old sustained severe injuries and is listed in critical condition.  The 5-year-old sustained serious injuries and was admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit.

On June 21, 2023, 26-year-old, Pedro Murillo, a resident of Los Angeles, surrendered to police and was booked for 20001(A) VC – Felony Hit and Run with Injury, Booking No. 6627809.  Murillo is currently in custody will be arraigned on June 23, 2023, at Compton Courthouse.

On June 22, 2023, South Traffic detectives were notified by hospital staff that the 5-year-old child succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased.  Investigators have requested murder charges be filed by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.  Detectives are also asking for the public’s help with detailed information about the whereabouts or activity Murillo may have been engaged in prior to the crash.

Drivers are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves.

On April 15, 2015, the City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund.  A reward of up to $50,000 is available to community members that provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact Officer Gerald Chavarria, Serial No. 37560, South Traffic Division Division at 323-421-2500.  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 the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.  Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an online tip.  Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.