A late-night walk in downtown Los Angeles turned deadly early Thursday when a pedestrian was struck and killed in a marked crosswalk, according to police. The collision happened at about 2 a.m. near 9th Street and Towne Avenue, where a 37-year-old pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver stayed at the location and called for help, authorities said.
NBC Los Angeles reported that the driver, a 22-year-old behind the wheel of a Nissan Kicks, was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence. Officers arrested the driver at the scene after the vehicle stopped and the driver contacted emergency services. Police said the victim's identity was not immediately available.
Pedestrian Safety in Los Angeles
The fatal crash comes as Los Angeles officials continue to press their Vision Zero campaign to cut traffic deaths on city streets. In its 2023 annual report, the Los Angeles Department of Transportation counted 336 traffic fatalities and said it is prioritizing safety projects and street redesigns along the city's high‑injury network, according to the Los Angeles Department of Transportation.
Investigation and Next Steps
LAPD traffic investigators remained at the intersection to process the crash scene and collect evidence as the investigation continues. The driver, who stayed at the scene and called for assistance, was arrested on suspicion of DUI, and the victim's identity has not yet been released, NBC Los Angeles reported.
