[02-18-2026] Los Angeles County – Hit-and-Run Driver Sought After Fatal Pedestrian Crash in South Los Angeles
Los Angeles, California – Authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating a driver who fled the scene after a deadly collision in South Los Angeles over the weekend.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, officers responded around 9:30 p.m. Sunday to reports of a crash near the intersection of S. Western Avenue and W. 82nd Street in the Manchester Square area. When they arrived, they discovered a man lying in the roadway with critical injuries.
The victim, identified as 50-year-old Los Angeles resident Javier Tamayo, was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department. Investigators determined that Tamayo had been struck while crossing the street.
Detectives believe the vehicle involved is a tan GMC SUV equipped with LED lighting along the side running boards. After the impact, the SUV was reportedly seen heading eastbound on 81st Street from Western Avenue before disappearing from view.
In an effort to identify and apprehend the driver, police have released surveillance footage connected to the case on the department’s official YouTube channel. Officials are also offering a reward of up to $50,000 through the city’s Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund for information leading to the suspect’s identification, arrest, and conviction.
Anyone with details about the incident is urged to contact detectives with the LAPD’s South Traffic Division at (323) 421-2577.
Source: CBS News
How to Claim Compensation After a Fatal Pedestrian Hit-and-Run
Losing a loved one in a fatal pedestrian hit-and-run is devastating. While the driver may have fled the scene, your family may still have legal options to pursue compensation.
The first step is to speak with an experienced hit and run accident attorney. Even if the at-fault driver has not yet been identified, an attorney can investigate the crash, work with law enforcement, gather surveillance footage, and determine whether uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may apply. Many auto insurance policies provide coverage for hit-and-run incidents, which can help compensate surviving family members.
You should also consult a Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer who understands the complexities of pedestrian crash cases. These claims often involve accident reconstruction, traffic camera analysis, and a detailed review of the victim’s medical records and financial contributions to the household.
When a pedestrian dies due to someone else’s negligence, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. A skilled Los Angeles wrongful death attorney can help eligible relatives—such as a spouse, children, or certain dependents—seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship. In some cases, punitive damages may also be pursued if the driver’s conduct was especially reckless.
Even if the driver is later arrested, criminal charges are separate from a civil wrongful death claim. A civil case focuses on financial recovery for the family and has a different burden of proof.
If your family is facing this situation, contact J&Y Law for a free consultation. Our team can review your case, explain your options, and guide you through the legal process. Call (877) 718-5027 today to speak with an attorney.