A juvenile was left dead and another pedestrian injured in a grisly hit-and-run case that occurred late Saturday night on Strathern Street in Sun Valley. The incident involved a 2007 Cadillac SUV that was being driven recklessly, as reported by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
LAPD News: Juvenile Killed, Driver for Murder After a Fatal Hit-and-Run Involving Pedestrian pic.twitter.com/p8fjaqjvL6
— LAPD PIO (@LAPDPIO) December 18, 2023
The LAPD detailed that around 11:15 p.m., the male juvenile pedestrian fell victim to the speeding SUV, which also collided with several parked vehicles and caused debris that struck a second pedestrian. The driver abandoned his vehicle and fled the scene, leading to open charges, including murder, against 22-year-old Joseph Delgado, who was subsequently arrested and booked. The second victim sustained moderate injuries but is expected to recover, while the deceased's identity remains unconfirmed as authorities await notification of the next of kin.
The LAPD's Valley Traffic Detectives conducted interviews and followed leads that brought them to Delgado, a North Hills resident. The department's efforts culminated in Delgado's arrest for the felony charge of murder under penal code 187(A), as conveyed in the LAPD's news release.
The LAPD has since issued a stern reminder to the community, urging motorists to maintain safe driving speeds and to stop and render aid in the event of an accident, while at the same time reiterating that pedestrians must adhere to road safety rules.
Authorities are asking anyone with additional information related to the tragic incident to reach out to Valley Traffic Division Detectives or contact the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers for those wishing to provide anonymous tips.
