Homicide Investigation Launched After Man Found Dead In Valley Driveway

CHATSWORTH, CA — A homicide investigation is underway after a man was found dead after being hit by a car in a Chatsworth driveway Wednesday in what police say was an intentional killing.

Police responded to a report of a "dead body" found near Lassen Street and Canoga Avenue Wednesday at around 5:30 a.m. There, police found a man lying in a driveway apron with multiple traumatic injuries, the Los Angeles Police Department said.

Paramedics pronounced the man dead at the scene.

"Evidence at the scene, along with surveillance video, revealed that the victim had been intentionally struck by a vehicle, which then fled the area. While the victim’s injuries were consistent with being hit by a vehicle, detectives noted he may have sustained additional injuries of undetermined cause," police wrote.

The county Medical Examiner's office on Thursday identified the victim as Victor Cocolotta. His place of residence was not disclosed, and his cause of death was listed as "deferred."

The suspect or suspect remains at large. Detectives are canvassing the area for witnesses, evidence and additional surveillance footage, police said.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Valley Bureau Homicide at 818-374-9550 or 877-527-3247 during non-business hours. Anonymous tips canbe submitted to Crime Stoppers online or at 800-222-8477.

City News Service contributed to this report.