Hit-and-run victim ID'd after being struck while riding scooter in Hollywood; photos show car sought
HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A 24-year-old man has been identified as the victim who was struck and killed in a hit-and-run crash while riding an electric scooter in Hollywood.
Family members created a GoFundMe page in honor of Tommy Sanchez, who was struck by a driver early Saturday morning on Western Avenue.
The collision occurred shortly before 2:30 a.m. as the victim was crossing the street, just south of Santa Monica Boulevard, the Los Angeles Police Department said.
Tommy had recently celebrated his birthday, according to his father, Javier Sanchez. He had apparently just moved into a place of his own and his dreams were to buy a car and go to college.
"It makes me really angry but I know the justice system will work," said the father regarding the suspect, who remains on the run. "He's going to get caught eventually. Surrender. If you are listening to me, surrender yourself."
On Tuesday evening, the LAPD released photos showing the car that investigators believe was involved in the crash. Tommy was riding a Lime electric scooter at the time, and was knocked off of it after being hit, the LAPD said. The driver, who did not stop to help, was last seen fleeing northbound on Western Avenue.
Firefighter-paramedics transported Tommy to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
"I do understand that accidents happen but I don't understand how you can't stop," said his sister Saraly Sanchez.
Meanwhile, Tommy's family is remembering him for who he was and what he gave the world. They said he was once a star football player at Burbank High School.
"Through high school, he was one of the best football players for BHS. I hope Burbank High can remember his as Tommy Sanchez #9 because he did it with pride," said Tommy's friend Jaime.
The suspect's vehicle is described as a black sedan, possibly a 2001-2005 Mitsubishi Eclipse convertible.
A reward of up to $50,000 is available through the city's Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call LAPD West Traffic Division detectives at (213) 473-0234. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (800-222-8477).
