Teen Driver Arrested For Fatal Hit and Run

September 28, 2008

Los Angeles: An 18-year-old resident of Tarzana is arrested for felony hit and run after leaving the scene of an accident that killed a Van Nuys resident.

On Saturday, September 27, 2008 at around 7:30 p.m., a 59-year-old man was walking eastbound on Hazeltine Avenue, South of Califa Street when he was struck by a 1992, green Honda Accord driven by Joel Morales.  Morales did not stop to render help to the victim.  The victim was transported to a local hospital where he died as the result of his injuries.  His identity has been withheld pending family notification.  

Based on information provided by witnesses, investigators were able to find Morales and the car involved in the accident.  Morales was arrested just before 3:00 a.m. Sunday morning, September 28, 2008.  He was booked at Van Nuys Jail for Felony Hit and Run.  Bail was set at $50,000.            

Anyone with information is urged to contact Valley Traffic Detective James Deaton at 818-644-8035.  After-hours and on weekends calls may be directed to the 24-hour, toll-free number, 1-877-LAW-FULL (529-3855) or texting CRIMES (274637) and beginning the message with LAPD.  Tipsters may also submit information on the LAPD website www.lapdonline.org., and can remain anonymous.