A man suspected of intentionally running down a skateboarder with his vehicle then fleeing the scene in Palmdale, leaving the victim critically injured, was taken into custody, sheriff’s officials said Friday.
The skateboard rider was struck Monday at the intersection of Sixth Street East and East Avenue Q-12, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Sheriff’s officials said surveillance video showed the driver of a white four-door Toyota Corolla traveling at a high rate of speed southbound on Sixth Street East cross into the northbound lanes and appearing to intentionally steer the vehicle toward the victim, who was riding a skateboard south near the east curb of the roadway.
The driver, identified only as a man in his 20s, struck the victim, who was thrown on top of the car and struck the windshield, sheriff’s officials said.
“The vehicle subsequently collided with the east curb and came to rest before the driver fled the area,” according to a statement from the sheriff’s department. “Investigators observed no apparent attempt by the driver to brake or avoid the collision, nor after striking the victim did the driver stop, render aid, or remain at the scene.
“Based on surveillance footage, statements, and evidence gathered during the investigation, investigators determined the incident appeared to be a targeted and intentional assault with a deadly weapon directed at the victim.”
The unidentified victim was hospitalized in critical condition.
Sheriff’s officials said investigators were able to locate the vehicle involved and arrest the driver. His name was not released, but sheriff’s officials said he had been charged with attempted murder.
Anyone with additional information was urged to contact the Palmdale Sheriff’s Station at 661-272-2400. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.