Redlands crossing guard death: $10,000 reward offered to find hit-and-run driver who struck, killed beloved crossing guard

REDLANDS, Calif. (KABC) -- Police in Redlands are offering a $10,000 reward for information in the death of a beloved crossing guard.

Leonard Ortiz, 48, was riding his motorized scooter in October when he was struck by a vehicle at Colton Avenue and Orange Street.

Authorities said the driver ran a red light and never bothered to stop. Ortiz was rushed to the hospital, where he was declared dead.

At a Tuesday morning press conference, Oritz's widow, Tracy Ortiz, fought through tears to ask for the public's help in finding her husband's killer.

"My husband was my world. We did everything together. That person took him away from me," Tracy Ortiz said, breaking down in tears. "But somebody knows, somebody knows. Please, please just, just turn him in. Turn whoever in."

He was a beloved crossing guard in the city.

Authorities think the suspect may have come from the Yucaipa or Mentone area or the San Bernardino Mountain area. Right after the crash, the person got on the freeway and turned around. The driver was spotted on other cameras and seen heading back east.

"I'm a Christian, and I don't know if I could forgive him. I'm supposed to, but just please turn yourself in," Tracy Ortiz said.

The suspect vehicle may be a dark green early 2000 model Ford Ranger pickup with a snug-fit camper shell.

If you have any information about the driver of the hit-and-run vehicle, you are urged to contact the Redlands Police Department.