On Tuesday, May 3, The Los Angeles Times reports that police in south LA were searching for a hit-and-run driver who struck and killed a 6-year-old girl who had run across the street to chase a ball.
According to the article, the fatal Los Angeles pedestrian accident occurred at approximately 9:20 p.m. The vehicle, which is reported by witnesses to be a black, older-model SUV with tinted windows, hit the girl as she crossed the street close to West 49th Place and Hoover Street. The motorist then left the scene of the accident. By the time emergency personnel arrived, the girl was lying on the ground, unresponsive. Soon after, she was declared dead at a local hospital.
Police believe the right headlight of the SUV was damaged in the collision, and are asking anyone with information to contact the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) at 1-877-275-5273.
Sgt. Samuel Mark of the LAPD noted that if the hit-and-run driver had stayed at the accident scene, the incident would likely not be considered to be a crime. Under California Vehicle Code Section 20001, it is illegal for a motorist to leave the scene of an accident in which someone has been injured or killed. If a motorist flees the scene of a fatal accident, they will be charged with a felony hit-and-run. When someone is killed in a hit-and-run, the motorist may face fines of up to $10,000; and jail time, in addition to paying restitution to the victim’s family.
If your loved one has been killed in a pedestrian or car accident in California that was caused by another motorist’s negligence, contact Panish Shea & Boyle LLP. Our Los Angeles car accident attorneys can help your family obtain the full and just compensation you need and deserve to help cover such costs as hospital bills, lost income, funeral expenses, and more. Call 1-877-800-1700 to learn how our lawyers can be the strength by your side during this difficult time.
