Los Angeles, California (February 15, 2026) — A 50-year-old Los Angeles man was killed Sunday night in a hit-and-run collision in the Manchester Square neighborhood of South Los Angeles, according to authorities.
The victim was identified as Javier Tamayo, of Los Angeles. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash occurred around 9:30 p.m. at the intersection of South Western Avenue and West 82nd Street.
Incident Details: According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Tamayo was crossing the street when he was struck by a northbound vehicle on Western Avenue. Officers responded to reports of a collision and arrived to find the victim suffering from fatal injuries.
Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics pronounced Tamayo deceased at the scene.
Investigators believe the suspect vehicle is a tan GMC SUV equipped with LED lights along the side running boards. After striking Tamayo, the driver allegedly fled without stopping to render aid or provide identifying information, as required by law. Police said the SUV was last seen traveling eastbound on 81st Street from Western Avenue.
Detectives have released surveillance footage in an effort to identify the driver and are asking the public for assistance. A standing reward of up to $50,000 is being offered through the Los Angeles Administrative Code’s Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the suspect.
Investigation: The LAPD’s South Traffic Division is leading the investigation. In fatal hit-and-run cases, investigators typically work to reconstruct the sequence of events using surveillance video, physical evidence from the roadway, and vehicle debris left at the scene.
Detectives will likely analyze impact points, vehicle damage patterns, and the direction of travel to confirm the suspect vehicle’s movements before and after the collision. The presence of distinctive LED running board lights may help narrow the search to a specific make, model year range, or customized vehicle.
Authorities often canvass nearby businesses and residences for additional video footage and interview potential witnesses who may have observed the crash or the vehicle fleeing the area. In some cases, body shops are also alerted to be on the lookout for vehicles matching the description that arrive with front-end damage.
Legal Considerations: Under California law, drivers involved in collisions resulting in injury or death are required to stop immediately, remain at the scene, and render reasonable assistance. Fleeing the scene of a fatal crash can result in felony charges, including vehicular manslaughter or additional penalties depending on the circumstances.
From a civil perspective, Tamayo’s family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim if the responsible driver is identified. Such claims can seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional toll suffered by surviving loved ones.
I offer my heartfelt condolences to Javier Tamayo’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Sources: MyNewsLA; CBS Los Angeles