Grandmother killed, run over by car by daughter's boyfriend in Hawthorne

HAWTHORNE, Calif. (KABC) -- A man was arrested after allegedly running down his girlfriend's 67-year-old mother in Hawthorne.

Investigators said the woman was run down right in the middle of Doty Avenue.

Sheriff's detectives say a couple was arguing in the middle of the street around 8:30 p.m. Thursday. Neighbors heard the commotion that led to the woman's death.

"Sounds like fist-fighting. I came out to see what was going on. Heard a child crying, so I thought I should get involved. I came outside and I just saw a lady laying on the floor, an older lady about 60 years old," described area resident Chris Morante.

The driver didn't get far. Amir Bass was arrested a short distance from the crime scene and taken into custody about an hour later. The 25-year-old is now facing murder charges.

At first, police hinted it may have been an accident, but residents said there is no doubt in their minds what he was trying to do.

"They were fighting right here, the lady and her mom, about money. I don't know what the hell it was, maybe drug issues. The guy just got mad, got in his truck, and ran them over," said witness Jose Santos Villa Lobos.

The victim was rushed to a local hospital, where she later died. The suspect's girlfriend was also hurt as Bass sped off, but the injuries were not serious.

Residents said the neighborhood is tough. While many are saddened by what happened, they are also not surprised.

Bass' bail was set at $60,000.