Man Fatally Injured by Hit-and-Run Driver NR13113rf

Los Angeles: Central Traffic Division detectives are asking for the public’s help in providing information regarding a hit-and-run incident that killed a pedestrian as he crossed the street.

Yesterday about 7:50 p.m., a man believed to be a transient was pushing a shopping cart while crossing Mateo Street westbound just south of 6th Street when he was struck by a white minivan.  The driver of the vehicle has been described only as a male.

After the impact, the suspect got out of his minivan, looked at the victim, returned to his vehicle and drove away southbound on Mateo Street. By law, he should have remained at the scene to identify himself and render aid.  At this time, there are no more descriptive details of the suspect or his vehicle.

After the incident, the victim was taken to a local hospital where he died a short time later.

Anyone with information about this crime is urged to call LAPD Central Traffic Detectives Jose De Leon or Josephine Mapson at 213-972-1845. During weekends and non-business hours, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD247 (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, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.