SANTA MONICA—On Thursday, July 16, a hit-and-run accident occurred on Vernon Avenue, leaving one man dead. Around 10:25 p.m., officers responded to Vernon Avenue just east of Wall Street. The accident involved a pedestrian who was walking down Vernon Avenue heading west and struck by a light-colored SUV.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the pedestrian was launched into the eastbound lanes of Vernon Avenue and struck by another vehicle described as a light colored 2011-2015 Dodge Charger. Both drivers of the vehicles failed to stop, identify themselves, or render aid.
The victim is described as a Hispanic male and 49 years of age. He suffered multiple blunt force trauma injuries and was transported to a local hospital by paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department. The victim succumbed to his injuries sustained after his arrival to the hospital. His identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
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.
In April 2020, the Los Angeles City Council amended the Los Angeles Administrative Code and created a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund. A reward of up to $50,000 is available to community members who provide information leading to the offender’s identification, apprehension, and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise.
Any individuals with information regarding the ongoing investigation are asked to contact Detective Calvin Dehesa, Central Traffic Division Detectives at (213) 833-3713 or the Central Traffic Division Watch Commander at (213) 486-3713.
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
