LA Hit And Run 'Severely' Injures Man, Police Search For Driver

Los Angeles CA

22 February, 2021

7:40 PM

Description

LOS ANGELES, CA — Police on Monday were searching for a driver who struck and "severely injured" a 51-year-old man as he was crossing the street in South Los Angeles over the weekend, officials said. The man was walking along the 1100 block of E. 49th Street around 10:51 a.m. on Sunday when someone driving a light green Prius struck him from behind, video from the Los Angles Police Department's Central Traffic Division shows. The man was taken to a local hospital with severe injuries and was in critical condition. "The driver of the vehicle failed to stop and render aid or identify themselves as required by California law," LAPD officials wrote in a Monday statement. The vehicle was described as a light green, 2004 to 2009 Toyota Prius. The windshield appeared to sustain heavy damage, police said. Police have not identified a suspect and the investigation is ongoing. The victim, Juan Beltran, was identified by his family as a pastor and father of six who lives in the area, KTLA reported. A reward of up to $25,000 is available to anyone who can provide information to help identify, arrest and convict the driver. Anyone with information was asked to contact Central Traffic Division Detectives at 213-833-3713. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls can be made to 877-527-3247. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. Footage of the hit and run can be viewed here (warning: graphic video)