Driver Intentionally Hits Pedestrian, Police Say

A Redondo Beach man was arrested on suspicion of intentionally mowing down a pedestrian with his SUV on Pier Avenue on Sunday evening, Hermosa Beach police said.

Two people were crossing the street at about 9:15 p.m. when Redondo Beach resident Jared Polk, 25, drove his black Honda Element toward the crosswalk and "screeched to a stop," nearly hitting them, police said in a statement Tuesday.

One of the pedestrians questioned Polk and his actions; in response, Polk allegedly reversed his SUV, repositioned it, and drove directly at the two pedestrians, according to police.

The SUV collided with one of the pedestrians while the other was able to jump out of the way, police said. Detective Mick Gaglia told the Daily Breeze the victim rolled up on the car's hood before hitting the pavement as Polk drove away.

Officers were able to later track down and arrest Polk and his SUV in Redondo Beach, police said.

The victim was able to identify Polk and his vehicle, according to police.

Officers arrested Polk and transported him to the jail for booking.

Police are encouraging anyone who witnessed the Pier Avenue incident to contact Sgt. Raul Saldana at 310-318-0351 or rsaldana@hermosapolice.org.