Man Trying To Rescue Dog Loose in Traffic Killed By Hit-And-Run Driver

MISSION HILLS, CA — A 50-year-old many trying to save a dog running loose in traffic was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver in Mission Hills, and police are asking for help finding his killer.

Jesus Portillo, of North Hills, was struck by a driver at 9:25 Sunday on Devonshire Street as he stopped to help a loose dog cross the street, according to the Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Officer.

The driver of a light-colored sedan heading eastbound on Devonshire Street near Woodman Avenue struck Portillo and kept going, according to police.

The driver failed to stop as required by law and continued heading east on Devonshire Street.

Paramedic were called to the scene, but were unable to save Portillo.

"Motorists are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves," the police department said in a statement.

A reward of up to $50,000 is being offered for information that leads to the identification, arrest and conviction of the suspect.

Anyone with information regarding the fatal hit-and-run was urged to contact LAPD Valley Traffic Division Officer Takishita at 818-644-8116 or 818- 644-8020. Calls during non-business hours or weekends should be directed to 877- 527-3247. Tipsters who choose to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.

City News Service contributed to this report.