Los Angeles, CA (September 19, 2025) – A 30-year-old skateboarder identified as Gerardo “Jerry” Estrada was killed Friday night after being struck by a Los Angeles Police Department patrol car in the Highland Park neighborhood.
Accident Details: LAPD reported that the crash happened around 7:20 p.m. at the intersection of Woodside Drive and North Figueroa Street. Estrada was skateboarding southbound on the center median when he was hit by a responding police cruiser.
The officer driving the patrol car was en route to another call with lights and sirens engaged at the time of the collision. Estrada sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The officer was not injured. The roadway remained closed for several hours as investigators documented the scene and redirected traffic.
Investigation: LAPD Captain Mike Bland explained that officers often use the center median to pass traffic when responding to emergencies with lights and sirens. However, he emphasized that officers remain obligated to exercise due care even under emergency driving exemptions.
Authorities have not disclosed how fast the patrol vehicle was traveling when it struck Estrada. Investigators are expected to analyze vehicle data, roadway conditions, and witness statements to reconstruct the events leading to the crash. The department is also likely to review dashcam and bodycam footage as part of the investigation.
Family members and friends held a vigil Saturday night at the crash site, remembering Estrada as a kind and generous person. The incident occurred during the Carnival Fair at nearby Sycamore Grove Park, though officials have not said whether the event was affected.
Legal Considerations: Crashes involving law enforcement vehicles responding to emergencies present unique legal issues. While officers are granted certain exemptions from traffic laws, they must still operate with reasonable care to avoid unnecessary harm. Families of victims in such cases may pursue wrongful death claims against municipalities if negligence is established.
In addition to civil considerations, independent reviews may examine department policies, officer training, and whether safer alternatives existed in responding to the emergency.
This tragedy underscores the risks pedestrians and skateboarders face when traveling near busy intersections, as well as the responsibility of officers to balance urgency with public safety.
My thoughts are with the family and friends of Gerardo Estrada as they grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Source: KCAL News