County authorities on Monday released the name of a 61-year-old woman who was killed when a wrong-way driver veered onto a sidewalk in Santa Monica and struck multiple pedestrians, leaving two of them dead.
Her name was Maura Cohen, according to the Los Angeles County medical examiner's office, which reported she died at the scene of the crash 9:15 p.m. Friday in the 1300 block of Wilshire Boulevard.
Also killed was Brad Lipshy, 61, the CEO of a Santa Monica event planning firm.
Two other people were taken to a hospital, and were expected to survive their injuries.
"Preliminary information indicates the involved vehicle was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Wilshire Boulevard when it drove onto the sidewalk and struck the four pedestrians," Santa Monica Police Department Lt. Lewis Gilmour said.
"The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot prior to officers' arrival and remains outstanding," he said.
The suspect was described as a male, approximately 6 feet tall, who was last seen wearing a red hat, a black sweater and black shoes.
"The vehicle is registered to a corporate entity and has been recovered," Gilmour said. "Investigators have collected substantial evidence from the vehicle and surrounding area, including witness accounts and security footage, which are being analyzed as part of the ongoing investigation."
Interim Santa Monica Police Chief Darrick Jacob expressed sympathy for the victims and their families and said investigators are hard at work finding the suspect.
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"We recognize the gravity of this tragedy and the impact it has on our community," he said. "Our investigators are working tirelessly to identify and locate the suspect responsible, and our hearts are with the families of the victims who are experiencing unimaginable loss."
Anyone with information regarding the crash was urged to contact police at 310-458-2201, ext. 5311, or the watch commander at 310-458-8327. Callers who wish to remain anonymous may call 1-800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.
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