Information Sought on Severe Hit-and-Run NR21190jc

Vermont Vista: The Los Angeles Police Department’s South Traffic Division detectives are asking for the public’s help in providing any information that would lead to the identification of a hit-and-run driver involved in a traffic collision that left a pedestrian severely injured.

On July 16, 2021, around 6:10 p.m., a vehicle traveling Westbound Colden Avenue from Figueroa Street Collided with an 18-year-old pedestrian riding a skateboard that was also traveling Westbound on Colden Avenue. The impact between the vehicle and the skateboarder caused the victim to be thrown from the skateboard and to collide with the roadway. The hit-and-run driver continued westbound on Colden Avenue failing to stop, render aid, and/or identify themselves as required by California law. South traffic detectives are in the early stages of the investigation will provide more information on the suspect and the vehicle description when it becomes available.

Paramedics of the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to the scene and transported the victim to Harbor UCLA Medical Center and is in critical condition. The victim’s identity is not being released until family members are notified.

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 $25,000 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 asked to contact Detective Keith Gonzalez or Detective Michael Flannery of South Traffic Division detectives 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.