The Los Angeles Police Department is actively seeking assistance from the public in the wake of a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a teenage boy in South Los Angeles, as first reported by CBS News Los Angeles and echoed by multiple sources. According to the LAPD, the incident took place early Sunday morning at approximately 2:00 a.m., near the intersection of San Pedro and 99th streets. A male juvenile on a pocket bike collided with a dark-colored Toyota Corolla, which was subsequently abandoned by the driver, who fled on foot.
Authorities have identified the victim as 16-year-old Hayden Neighbors, as per the Los County Medical Examiner's report obtained by FOX LA. The teen suffered blunt trauma and was pronounced dead at the scene by firefighter paramedics. Witnesses in the area have expressed their concerns, with a South LA resident, Laverne Lewis saying, "It’s time for everybody to pay attention because there’s too much happening right here," according to a statement obtained by FOX LA.
Regarding the hit-and-run suspect, he is described as a male, potentially in his 20s with a heavy build. However, more specific details about his identity and whereabouts remain unknown. Motorists are reminded of their legal responsibilities in the event of a collision, which includes halting as soon as safe to do so, notifying emergency services, and remaining at the crash site.
The City of Los Angeles is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information that would lead to the identification, apprehension, and conviction of the individual involved in this and other hit-and-run cases reported LAPD Online. Anybody with knowledge regarding the incident is urged to contact LAPD South Traffic Division Officer Cha at 213-458-3472 or LA Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS for those preferring to remain anonymous.
