Fatal Hit-and-Run Incident in South Los Angeles Victim Was an 18-Year-Old Student NR12528rf

Los Angeles:  Detectives are investigating a fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a pedestrian who was attempting to cross the street.

On Nov. 17, 2012, at around 7 p.m., a motorist in a late-model Plymouth Town and Country van was traveling south on Broadway from Century Boulevard and hit a pedestrian who was attempting to cross the street on Broadway.  The driver failed to stop and render aid or provide identification as required by law.  The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.  

The pedestrian, identified as 18-year-old Miguel Mendez of Los Angeles, was a student at Bannerker Special Education Center for children with special needs.  He was immediately rushed to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

At this time, the suspect remains outstanding, and detectives have few leads.  LAPD’s South Traffic Division is seeking the public’s help to locate the person responsible for this tragic incident.

Anyone with information should contact the South Traffic Division Detective Section at (323) 421-2500 during weekdays between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.  After hours and weekends, calls may be directed to South Traffic Division’s Watch Commander at (213) 485-7336 or to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). 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 www.lapdonline.org, and click on "Anonymous Web Tips.”