The Los Angeles Police Department has announced a $50,000 reward for information that could lead to the arrest of the driver responsible for a fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of a 41-year-old father of two in Canoga Park. The tragic incident occurred on December 6, 2024, when Markus Caldwell was fatally struck while attempting to cross De Soto Avenue near Gresham Street. According to a press release from the LAPD reported by ABC7, the driver, who was behind the wheel of a silver SUV, fled the scene without stopping or attempting to render aid.
Months have passed since the crash, yet the search for the driver continues. The LAPD is actively pursuing the case and has released surveillance footage showing Caldwell crossing the street at the time he was struck. In a plea for assistance, authorities are asking for anyone who was present in the area at the time of the collision or who might have information regarding the suspect vehicle to come forward. Detective Olson and Detective Martinez of the Valley Traffic Division are the investigators handling the case and can be reached directly. As stated in an official publication by the department and reported by LAPDValleyTraffic, "Anyone who was driving in the area of DeSoto Av and Gresham St around 5:13 p.m., on December 6th and/or witnessed the collision is urged to contact Valley Traffic Division Detectives with any information."
$50,000 reward help Detectives find H&R driver who crashed into a pedestrian on 12/06/24 De Soto Ave & Gresham St. Call 818-644-8022 VTD detectives pic.twitter.com/kW83u3dV4k
— LAPDValleyTraffic (@LAPDVTD) April 29, 2025
The silver sedan that hit Caldwell had tinted front windows and was last seen driving southbound on De Soto Avenue and then westbound on Gresham Street, according to the LAPD Valley Traffic Division Crime Analysis Detail's community alert. Those wishing to provide tips anonymously can contact the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or use the "P3 Tips" mobile application, as stated in a press release published by the Los Angeles Police Department on April 29, 2025.
