LAPD detectives have released new surveillance images and street-camera video as they renew a public plea to identify the driver who struck and killed 24-year-old Taylor Jackson in Los Angeles' Arlington Heights neighborhood in November 2023. The department says the fresh push, which includes circulating the clips alongside an existing reward, is aimed at shaking loose new leads in a case that has haunted Jackson's family for more than a year.
The collision happened around 10 p.m. on Nov. 14, 2023, when a black four-door Infiniti, described by police as a 2015 or newer model, was speeding south on Arlington Avenue and hit two pedestrians who were crossing eastbound just north of Venice Boulevard, according to CBS Los Angeles. A 25-year-old man was not injured, while Jackson was pronounced dead at the scene by Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics.
Police Release Footage to the Public
Detectives made the security footage public on Friday, hoping that someone would recognize the vehicle or the people inside it. They also released still photos from nearby cameras that show the Infiniti continuing southbound on Arlington without stopping, according to MyNewsLA. Investigators say even tiny details, such as a bumper scratch, a distinctive wheel design, or part of a license plate number, could be enough to generate a solid tip.
Family Remembers Jackson
Jackson's mother, Mia Cota, told reporters the loss has been shattering for the family and urged drivers to slow down. "Everything I told her to watch out for ... I didn't know it was going to be something like crossing the street," she said, as reported by ABC7 Los Angeles. Friends and relatives remembered Jackson as an aspiring music artist and said they hope the renewed appeal will finally prompt someone with information to come forward.
How To Help
Anyone with information about the vehicle or the driver is asked to contact LAPD West Traffic detectives at 213-473-0234. During off-hours, callers can reach the department at 1-877-LAPD-24-7, according to the LAPD West Traffic Division. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous can contact L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Officials note that tips leading to an identification, arrest, and conviction may qualify for a monetary reward.
Why Police Are Reaching Out Again
Investigators often reissue footage and images when a case slows down, in the hope that new witnesses or previously overlooked videos will surface. The city's Hit-and-Run Reward Program, created by the Los Angeles City Council in 2015, allows for rewards of up to $50,000 in qualifying cases, according to a Board of Police Commissioners report.
Anyone who was near Arlington Avenue and Venice Boulevard on the night of Nov. 14, 2023, or who has dash-cam or doorbell footage from that area, is urged to take another look. Police say even a single frame from a camera can provide the break they need to move the case forward.
