(Echo Park, CA) Lai Har Chu, 87, was tragically killed by a hit-and-run motorist on January 13 while walking through a crosswalk at Berkeley Avenue and Allesandro Street.
The LAPD reported that Chu was struck around 6:50 p.m. by a dark Ford Transit van heading southbound on Allesandro. The driver fled the scene without rendering aid.
Chu was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene.
A reward of up to $50,000 is being offered for information that can help investigators identify the suspect. If you have information, they ask that you contact LAPD Central Traffic Investigator M. Figueroa at [email protected], or 213-833-3713. If you are calling during non-business hours or over a weekend, they ask that you call 877-527-3247. Anyone who would prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or go to lacrimestoppers.org.
Liability in an Echo Park Car Accident
–California Vehicle Code 20002 states that a person who left an accident scene, failed to identify themselves to the others in the accident, and damaged someone else’s property is guilty of misdemeanor hit-and-run.
–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 mean up to 1 year in jail or prison. If the accident resulted in serious injury or death, a judge could give a suspect 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 put points on one’s driving record.
