Police asked for the public’s help Tuesday finding the driver of an SUV that fatally struck a 36-year-old man who was lighting fireworks in the street in Wilmington.
Paramedics were called shortly after 9:10 p.m. Monday to the 700 block of North Fries Avenue near West G Street, just south of Anaheim Street, according to spokesman Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
An SUV was traveling north on Fries from G Street at a high rate of speed and struck the pedestrian, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
“The pedestrian was dragged for approximately 85 feet before becoming dislodged from the undercarriage of the SUV. Once dislodged, the pedestrian was struck by a second vehicle,” police said, adding that the driver of the second vehicle remained at the scene.
The driver of the SUV fled north on Fries without stopping and rendering aid as required by law, police said.
Paramedics pronounced the victim dead at the scene. His identity is not being released pending notification to family members.
A reward of up to $50,000 is available to residents who provide information leading to an identification, apprehension and conviction or resolution through a civil compromise in a fatal hit-and-run.
Anyone with information about the fatal accident was urged to contact Detective Moreno or Officer Kim of the LAPD’s South Traffic Division at 323-421-2500. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to the watch commander at 323-421-2577, or 877-527-3247. Those wishing to remain anonymous may contact LA Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.lacrimestoppers.org.