Lincoln Heights hit-and-run intersection collision critically injures boy

LINCOLN HEIGHTS, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A 10-year-old boy was critically injured in a hit-and-run collision in Lincoln Heights Tuesday evening, and police are seeking the driver caught on surveillance camera.

Two boys, ages 10 and 11, waited for traffic to clear before crossing busy North Main Street at Sichel Street at about 5:35 p.m.

One car stopped for the boys before another car plowed through the crosswalk traveling southbound, hitting the 10-year-old. The boy was hospitalized at L.A. County USC Medical Center in critical condition.

The 10-year-old, identified as Randy Villareal, suffered head trauma, a pelvic fracture and internal bleeding. The 11-year-old boy was unharmed.

Surveillance video shows the driver swerved before striking the child, but the driver never stopped, continuing southbound on Main Street.

"They were crossing the street and this car just literally just comes and the kid, as soon as he put his foot out, just 'Boom,' and he flew more than 30 feet," said Diane Barragan, who witnessed the collision.

Jennifer Galindo, Randy's older sister, said doctors say he will survive.

Galindo says her brother and his friends have used this crosswalk many times without any problems.

"They look both sides like they were taught to do," said Galindo. "They actually were very cautious, and we saw the footage. Someone was just driving way too fast and basically didn't care."

"This driver knew he struck one of the kids and he decided to keep going," said LAPD Detective Felix Padilla. "If he had just stayed there, this would have just been an accident, but once you leave, it becomes a crime."

"There's someone out there that hit a kid and just left him in the street, raining," said Galindo. "And there was other kids that saw it and they're still stuck with the trauma. So if anyone knows anything, please, my family would really appreciate -- this is a really hard time for us right now."

Police say they're not sure whether the driver was a man or a woman. They are looking for a dark-colored sedan that may have damage to the hood and front windshield.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the LAPD Central Traffic Division Detectives at (213) 833-3713 or Detective Felix Padilla at (213) 486-0753.

During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to (877) LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS.

Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cellphone. All text messages should begin with the letters "LAPD." Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.