The Los Angeles Police Department's West Traffic Division is investigating a fatal hit-and-run collision that killed a man riding a "Lime" scooter.
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On October 29, 2023, around 2:30 a.m., a black Mitsubishi Eclipse traveling north on Western Avenue ran into Tommy Sanchez, 24, throwing him off his scooter and onto the roadway.
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According to a police report, the driver fled the scene without checking on Sanchez, leaving him on the road until a silver Lexus ran over the scooter. The driver noticed Sanchez and called 911.
As KNX New's Emily Valdes reports, one of Sanchez's three friends there at the time of the crash attempted to perform CPR but was unable to save him.
Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene and provided immediate medical attention to Sanchez. They then transported him to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Sanchez, who had been celebrating his 24th birthday the day before, was known for his big smile.
In Loving Memory of Tommy Sanchez GofundmeJavier Sanchez
A Gofundme set up to help the family pay for his funeral expenses says, "Tommy was more than just a name; he was the light in our lives, the irrepressible jokester who found humor in even the darkest of moments. His infectious laughter was a melody that resonated in the corners of our home, and his ability to lift our spirits with his playful antics was a gift we cherished every day."
There is a $50,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of the hit-and-run driver.
LAPD
Anyone with information about this collision is asked to contact West Traffic Detectives at (213) 473-0234. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877- LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call CrimeStoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).
Tipsters may also contact CrimeStoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters "LAPD." Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.
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