Los Angeles, CA (February 26, 2026) – Authorities have identified 37-year-old Robert Francis as the pedestrian who was struck and killed in a crash in downtown Los Angeles involving a suspected intoxicated driver on February 26, 2026.
Incident Details: According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the collision occurred around 2:10 a.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at the intersection of Ninth Street and Towne Avenue. Francis was walking south on Ninth Street when he was struck by a red Nissan Kicks SUV that was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of Ninth Street.
The driver of the Nissan was identified as Orlando Larios. Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics pronounced Francis dead at the scene. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner later determined that he died from blunt traumatic injuries. Police stated that their investigation indicated Larios was under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and booked on suspicion of felony DUI.
Investigation: LAPD Central Traffic Division officers responded to the scene and began a detailed investigation into the crash. Investigators determined that the vehicle was traveling in the wrong direction at the time of the collision, which led to the pedestrian being struck.
Authorities will likely review surveillance footage, witness statements, and roadway evidence to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash. Officers may also analyze the driver’s blood alcohol concentration, vehicle speed, and whether additional traffic violations occurred before the collision. The results of toxicology testing and further forensic analysis will help determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
Legal Considerations: Driving under the influence and traveling in the wrong lane of traffic are serious violations that can create significant legal liability when they result in a fatal crash. If investigators confirm that intoxication and reckless driving caused the collision, the driver may face both criminal penalties and civil liability.
Robert Francis’s surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the loss of companionship and guidance. DUI-related crashes often strengthen civil claims because driving while impaired is considered a clear breach of a driver’s duty to operate a vehicle safely.
My deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Robert Francis during this heartbreaking time. I hope they can find strength and support as they cope with this tragic loss.
Source: My News LA