Felony Hit and Run Traffic Collision Leaves Man in Critical Condition

UPDATE
December 18, 2019

Update: This is a picture of the
victim. Correction on his name, it is Joel Cruz 39 years-old, from
Los Angeles. We are still looking for his family members and
suspect.

Joel Cruz

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department’s
Central Traffic Division detectives are asking for the public’s
help in locating the alleged driver involved in a felony hit and
run traffic collision that left Jose Artega, 39-year-old male in
critical condition. Detectives are also asking for the public’s
help in locating the victim’s family members.

On December 13, 2019, around 11:30 p.m., a pedestrian was severely
injured as he was attempting to cross Central Avenue at 67th
Street. A vehicle described as a 4 door, black or dark blue Kia was
traveling southbound when it collided with the pedestrian. The
driver of the Kia failed to stop and identify him/herself and
render aid as required by law.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Moses
Castillo at 30215@lapd.online or Central Traffic Detectives at
213-833-3713 or 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 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.