Exposition Park, CA (November 25, 2024) 16-year-old Jonathan Flores was tragically killed in a potential road-rage incident involving a vehicle and a group of bicyclists.
Shortly before 4:30 p.m., Flores was riding his bike with about 40 other people south on Figueroa Street, north of MLK Jr. Boulevard. California Highway Patrol learned that an altercation between a driver in a black sedan and some of the riders occurred. The bicyclists then veered off the road and into a parking lot near BMO stadium.
Apparently, the sedan followed the bicyclists into the lot, accelerated, and struck Flores. The driver then fled the scene. Police are still searching for them, and encourage anyone with information to call them immediately.
According to CBS News, fellow bicyclists said that Flores did nothing wrong. They suggested the sedan driver, a man with a goatee, might have been angry because one of the other bicyclists may have hit his vehicle’s side mirror.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Jonathan Flores. We know this is an extraordinarily difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one, especially one so young. If you have any questions about navigating the legal process surrounding this situation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us anytime. We are here day and night, ready to ease the burden of this overwhelming and terrible event.
Have you or a loved one been impacted by this event? Our team specializes in bicycle accidents and we are here to help. You can reach us 24/7 at (866) 945-4286 or visit our online contact form at Accident News Now.
Liability In an Exposition Park Accident
–California Vehicle Code 20002 states that one is guilty of misdemeanor hit-and-run if they left an accident scene, failed to identify themselves to the others involved in the accident, and damage occurred to someone else’s property.
–A misdemeanor hit-and-run carries a maximum penalty of no more than six months in the county jail and a fine starting at $1,000 dollars. It also requires victim restitution and will result in points on one’s driving record.
–A hit-and-run that results in injury or death is a felony, in accordance with California Vehicle Code 20003.
–A felony hit-and-run that results in a non-serious injury can carry a penalty of up to 1 year in jail or prison. If the accident resulted in serious injury or death, a suspect could get 2 to 4 years in prison, and a fine ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Like a misdemeanor hit-and-run, it also requires victim restitution and will result in points on one’s driving record.