LOS ANGELES, CA (August 22, 2022) – The coroner’s office today confirmed Matthew Lobos as the 17-year-old boy struck and killed by two vehicles during a gang-related assault in South Los Angeles on the outskirts of a party that included at least 150 people.
Matthew Lobos was a Los Angeles resident.
The death occurred shortly before 3 a.m. Sunday in the area of Avalon Boulevard and 62nd Street, according to Officer Norma Eisenman of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Media Relations Division.
A suspect driving nearby spotted an unattended parked vehicle with the engine running outside a residence, Eisenman said. The suspect exited his vehicle and got into the unattended vehicle, driving away with it followed by another suspect in the vehicle he had left.
Both vehicles drove a short distance before turning around and heading back to the party, Eisenman said, adding that one of the suspects intentionally struck the victim now identified as Lobos as he stood in the street.
“Suspect Two also intentionally ran over the victim, after he was lying on the ground,” she said.
Both vehicles left the scene and the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene, Eisenman said. She did not have a description of the vehicles involved in the death, but Detective Jerry Gibson told ABC7 that they were a small SUV and a white Acura.
The station also reported that relatives said Lobos was a senior at Santee High School.
Anyone with information regarding the death was urged to call the LAPD’s Newton station at 323-846-6547 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477.
Liability In Los Angeles Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating Matthew Lobos’ Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Matthew Lobos. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a Huntington Beach car accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.