Fatal Hit and Run Suspect Turns Himself in to Authority NR17078ti

Los Angeles: On March 14, 2017, at 5:10 p.m., a possible Chevrolet Suburban or Tahoe dark green was traveling westbound on 82nd Street towards Towne Avenue. The victim ran into the roadway and was struck by the suspect vehicle. The motorist failed to stop, identify self and render aid. The victim was transported to Harbor UCLA Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. The victim was identified as Ronald O’Neal, 5 years old.

On March 15, 2017, at 2:00 p.m., Homer Watford, 19-years-old, accompanied by his family, went to 77th Street Area and advised the desk officer that he was the driver of the suspect vehicle. The passenger, Eric Roberts, 20-years-old, cousin to Watford later arrived at 77th Street Area. Watford was interviewed by South Traffic detectives and admitted he was the driver of the suspect vehicle and provided a statement. Roberts was also interviewed and provided a statement.

Homer Watford was booked at 77th Regional Jail for 20001 (A)VC Felony Hit and Run. At 5:30 p.m., the suspect’s green 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe was located in the 2300 block 3rd Avenue. The vehicle had collision damage consistent with the video and both license plates are missing.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact South Traffic Division Officer Mendoza 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 ww.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.