1 Dead In Early Morning Hit-And-Run In Palms

PALMS, CA — The Los Angeles Police Department sought the public's help Thursday in finding the driver of a car that struck a pedestrian who was lying on the road in the Palms area at the end of February.

LAPD officials said the collision happened at 1:17 a.m. on Feb. 26 when a compact SUV that was traveling west on Venice Boulevard hit the person who was lying outside a marked crosswalk at Robertson Boulevard. Officers said the car was possibly blue.

"The suspect vehicle fled the scene and did not stop to render aid and/or ID themselves," LAPD said in a statement.

Paramedics responded to the scene and transported the pedestrian to a local hospital, where he was later declared dead due to injuries sustained in the collision.

Community members who provide information that could help with the LAPD's investigation could receive an award of up to $50,000, officials said. Those who may have information about the incident were urged to contact West Traffic Division Detectives at 213-473-0234. Anonymous reports can be given by calling 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.

The LAPD advised drivers that in similar instances they should pull over and stop to notify emergency services and remain at the scene to identify themselves. Officers also urged pedestrians to remain alert and cautious when crossing streets.