Driver Accused Of Killing Cyclist, 77, In Griffith Park Charity Ride

LOS ANGELES, CA — A suspected hit-and-run driver is in custody today for allegedly striking and killing a 77-year-old charity ride cyclist in Griffith Park over the weekend, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

Jairo Martinez, 37, was driving a grey BMW northbound on Crystal Springs Drive just before 4 p.m. Saturday when he struck cyclist Andrew Jelmert, who died at the scene, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. According to LAPD Lt. M. McCommas of the Central Traffic Division, park rangers found and arrested Martinize not long after the crash.

"After the collision, the driver exited the vehicle and fled the location without rendering aid or identifying himself. Witnesses at the scene assisted the police in locating the driver who was subsequently arrested and booked for Vehicular Manslaughter. Alcohol was a factor in this collision," the LAPD said in a written release. "We would like to remind everybody when involved in a traffic crash to stop and check on the other parties, make sure they are not injured, call 9-1-1 if they need medical attention, and to exchange information. Don’t convert a traffic crash into a crime."

Martinez was booked on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter, and he was being held on $616,000 bail, police said.

Organizers of the charity ride AIDS/LifeCycle took to Facebook Sunday to share their grief.

"We are heartbroken to share the news that a cyclist participating in AIDS/LifeCycle's SoCal Day on the Ride lost their life after being struck by a vehicle yesterday," organizers of AIDS/LifeCycle posted on Facebook Sunday.

Jelmert was a five-time participant in the event and a member of the team Different Spokes, the organizers said.

"This is a senseless tragedy, and our hearts go out to everyone who is affected," said Joe Hollendoner, incoming CEO of the Los Angeles LGBT Center. "We revere each and every participant on AIDS/LifeCycle, who dedicate their time, energy, passion and power to lift up a cause close to their hearts. We mourn with our community."

City News Service contributed to this report.