On October 11, a hit-and-run accident in Los Angeles critically injured a pedestrian, with the driver still at large. The incident has prompted an investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) South Traffic detectives as reported by the LAPD Newsroom.
Daniel Pineda Jr., a 38-year-old Los Angeles resident, was struck by a driver of a black Mercedes-Benz 4-door sedan. The suspect, who left the scene immediately after the incident, is described as a male of either black or Hispanic heritage.
Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics promptly rushed Mr. Pineda to a local hospital, where he is currently in a coma and in critical condition. This event has stirred concerns within the community about pedestrian and driver safety.
Drivers are being reminded, in the wake of this incident, to exercise caution, abide by traffic rules, and be alert at all times. The LAPD also insists that drivers involved in a collision should stop as soon as safely possible, alert emergency services, and identify themselves at the scene as stated by the LAPD Newsroom.
A measure to address hit-and-run incidents, a Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund was established by the City Council on April 15, 2015. This fund offers a reward of up to $50,000 to anyone providing useful information that could lead to the offender's identification, apprehension, and conviction as detailed by the LAPD Newsroom.
To assist justice, individuals are encouraged to share information they have regarding the case. Details can be relayed to Detective Gerald Chavarria, South Traffic Division Detectives at 213-924-3621, the South Traffic Watch Commander during non-business hours or on weekends at 323-421-2577, or the LAPD 24/7 hotline at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247).
Anonymous tips can be submitted through the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or via their website at www.lacrimestoppers.org. The "P3 Tips" mobile application is another accessible method of submitting information, with the LA Regional Crime Stoppers selected as the local program, according to Los Angeles Police Department.
