Surveillance video shows an unidentified man carrying the limp body of 19-year-old North Hollywood resident Riardo Saija into the emergency room at Kaiser Hospital in Panorama City at about 1:50 a.m. on January 31.
Saija later died. The cause of his death was undetermined, according to the LAPD, but evidence indicated his death was probably related to a drug overdose.
Saija's family recognized the individual but did not know the man's name, according to police. LAPD said the man is not a suspect; he was sought for further information into Saija's activities on the night of his death.
The unidentified Good Samaritan was described as a Hispanic man with a medium build and short hair. He drove up in a four-door American car with several other occupants inside, according to police.
"The Good Samaritan is not a suspect," said LAPD Det. Gretchen Schultz. "We know the helpful friend was distraught over Ricardo's situation, but he left the hospital without identifying himself."
Anyone with information is urged to call Detective Gretchen Schultz, Mission Homicide Unit, at (818) 838-9951. Anonymous tips can be called into Crimestoppers at (800) 222-TIPS, or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cellphone. All text messages should begin with the letters "LAPD." Online tips may be placed at www.LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.
