Fatal Hit and Run Traffic Collision NR23182dm

Wilmington: Detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s South Traffic Division are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect involved in a hit and run traffic collision that killed a 36-year-old man.

On July 3, 2023, around 9:10 p.m., a vehicle, described as an SUV, was traveling north on Fries Avenue from “G” Street at a high rate of speed. The driver of that SUV struck a pedestrian who was lighting off fireworks in the street. The pedestrian was dragged for approximately 85 feet before becoming dislodged from the undercarriage of the SUV. Once dislodged, the pedestrian was struck by a second vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle remained at scene. The driver of the SUV fled north on Fries Avenue without stopping and rendering aid as required by law.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded and pronounced the victim dead at scene. The identity of the victim is not being released pending notification to family members.

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 who provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Moreno or Officer Kim, South Traffic Division, at (323) 421-2500. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to the South Traffic Watch Commander at (323) 421-2577, or contact 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. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the LA Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.