Northridge, CA (April 5, 2026) — A 29-year-old man was killed Sunday night after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run crash along Roscoe Boulevard near White Oak Avenue, according to authorities.
Officials later identified the victim as Deondre Deloatch.
Incident Details: Police reported that the collision occurred around 8:15 p.m. when a gray Honda Accord traveling eastbound struck Deloatch while he was in the roadway. Authorities stated that the impact caused him to be carried by the vehicle for a distance before he became separated. The driver continued eastbound without stopping.
Emergency responders transported Deloatch to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Investigators have since located and identified the vehicle and driver believed to be involved, though additional details about the suspect have not been publicly released. Officials are continuing to ask anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Investigation: In a fatal hit-and-run pedestrian crash like this, investigators will typically work to understand how the collision occurred and what led to the victim being in the roadway. That may involve reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses, analyzing physical evidence at the scene, and documenting damage to the vehicle.
They may also examine factors such as traffic flow, lighting conditions, and driver visibility at the time of the crash. The distance the victim was carried by the vehicle may also be evaluated during the reconstruction process, as it can provide insight into speed and braking.
Because the driver left the scene, investigators may also look closely at the timeline immediately after the collision, including how the vehicle was later located and any steps taken to identify the driver. Early evidence collection and witness accounts often play a critical role in building a clear understanding of what happened.
Legal Considerations: Fatal hit-and-run pedestrian collisions often raise serious questions about civil liability once the driver is identified. Depending on what the investigation reveals, Deondre Deloatch’s family may have the possibility to pursue a wrongful death claim. They may be able to recover compensation for their loss, including funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and the loss of care, guidance, and companionship.
A civil case may also help clarify details that are not immediately apparent in early reports.
My deepest condolences go out to Deondre Deloatch’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Source: My News LA and KTLA 5