Hit and Run turns into a Homicide

August 13, 2007

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is looking for witnesses that could provide information on the identity of a fatal hit and run motorist last Thursday afternoon.

On Thursday, August 9, 2007, at about 2:50 PM, Peter Anthony Martinez, 20, a resident of Van Nuys and his brother Alex Martinez, 18, were crossing White Oak Avenue at Wyandotte Street.

As they were nearing the center median, a male suspect driving a Honda Civic failed to yield to the pedestrians and sped past them northbound on White Oak Avenue. The victims yelled at the suspect who had come close to hitting them. The driver of the Honda Civic then made a U-turn and headed back southbound at a high rate of speed. As the driver approached he intentionally veered to his left and struck victim Peter Martinez with the front of his vehicle. The driver then fled southbound on White Oak Avenue.

Peter Martinez was taken to a local hospital where he was admitted in extremely critical condition.

On Saturday, August 11, 2007, at 3:55 PM, Peter Anthony Martinez died as a result of the massive trauma caused during this incident.

West Valley Homicide detectives are seeking the public’s assistance in locating the vehicle and suspect involved in this tragic event.

The suspect is described as a Male Hispanic or Middle Eastern, 30-40 years, black hair, short and nicely groomed.

The vehicle is described as a 1995/1996 Honda Civic, 4 door, Black, with tinted rear windows. The vehicle would have sustained moderate damage to the front end and possibly a broken windshield.

Anyone with information concerning this crime is encouraged to call West Valley Homicide detectives at 818-374-7725 or 818-374-7721. On weekends or during off-hours call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).