Tragedy struck Sunland as a pedestrian was fatally injured in a hit-and-run incident involving a grey 2023 Tesla Model 3, the Los Angeles Police Department reported. The driver, identified as 28-year-old Arvien Atakhanian from Glendale, failed to remain on scene as mandated by law after the collision on December 19. The victim, a white male in his early 40s, was struck while crossing the street around 10:20 p.m. on Sunland Boulevard and subsequently died from his injuries at a local hospital.
The incident, which occurred west of Sunland Way, prompted the response of LAPD's Valley Traffic Division detectives who have since taken the suspect into custody, and is now being booked at Van Nuys Jail under booking number 6729294 for Felony Hit and Run, the details of which were outlined in the police department's news release. The identity of the victim has been withheld until the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office completes the process of informing the next of kin.
In the wake of the fatal collision, the LAPD has issued a reminder to all motorists about their legal obligation to stop and render aid whenever they are involved in a collision. Failure to comply not only complicates emergency response efforts but also can lead to serious charges for leaving the scene of an accident.
The authorities are urging anyone with further information related to the case to reach out to Valley Traffic Division Detective Otrosina or Officer Garcia. Those wanting to maintain their anonymity have multiple options including calling L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers or submitting an online tip.
