Authorities Thursday will appeal for the public’s help to find the hit-and-run motorist responsible for fatally injuring a woman who was dropping off toys at a south Los Angeles shelter on Christmas Eve.
Trina Newman-Townsend, 62, was injured about 3:30 p.m. Dec. 24 at Broadway and 88th Street and died at the scene, according to the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles County coroner’s office.
Police said Newman-Townsend was dropping off toys to a shelter with her children, and as she returned to her parked vehicle she was struck by a blue, mid-size sedan that sustained significant damage to the front passenger area.
The vehicle was traveling north on South Broadway and continued in that direction, failing to stop, according to police. ABC7 reported that she was a mother, grandmother and community activist who helped raise foster children.
A Thursday morning news conference was planned at the LAPD’s South Traffic Division to seek the public’s help finding the hit-and-run motorist.
A standing reward of up to $50,000 has been offered by the city of Los Angeles for help in solving a fatal hit and run.
Anyone with information about the crash was urged to call detectives at 213-713-9579. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to 877-527-3247.
Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. Tipsters may also visit www.lapdonline.org and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the “Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an online tip.