East Los Angeles, California (February 8, 2026) — A 40-year-old man was killed early Sunday morning in a hit-and-run crash while riding a scooter along Whittier Boulevard in East Los Angeles. Authorities identified the victim as Danny Torrez II.
The collision occurred around 2:30 a.m. near Whittier Boulevard and Ferris Avenue, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Incident Details: Investigators said Torrez was riding his scooter and heading home when he was struck by a gray sedan. The driver did not stop and fled the scene, leaving Torrez critically injured in the roadway.
Emergency responders arrived and pronounced Torrez dead at the scene.
The CHP has not released a description of the at-large driver beyond identifying the suspect vehicle as a gray sedan. Authorities have not announced any arrests.
Family members described Torrez as a devoted son and a hardworking security guard, known for his warm personality and constant smile. His mother, Eva Dominguez, publicly pleaded for the driver to come forward and accept responsibility.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help the family cover funeral expenses as they cope with the sudden and devastating loss.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the fatal crash. In hit-and-run cases involving scooters or other small personal mobility devices, investigators typically examine vehicle debris, paint transfer, and surveillance footage from nearby businesses or residences.
Since the collision occurred early in the morning, the investigation will focus on environmental factors, especially visibility. Investigators will check if darkness, street lighting issues, or missing reflective markings contributed to the driver not seeing Danny. They will also examine the low traffic volume at that time, which could mean drivers should be more vigilant, or might have led to reckless driving due to the open road.
An official inquiry may use technology to reconstruct the events. Authorities are likely to review traffic camera footage from the crash corridor and surrounding streets to pinpoint the exact moment of impact, identify the vehicle, and track its escape route. This, along with debris analysis and eyewitness accounts, is vital to identifying the driver responsible for the fatal crash. Identifying the gray sedan will be critical to advancing the case.
Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact the California Highway Patrol.
Legal Considerations: Under California law, drivers involved in collisions resulting in injury or death are legally required to stop, render aid, and provide identifying information. Fleeing the scene of a fatal crash can result in felony hit-and-run charges, which carry severe criminal penalties.
The Torres family may have the option to file a wrongful death lawsuit after the hit-and-run driver is located. A successful civil claim can hold the responsible party financially accountable, covering costs such as funeral expenses, lost income, and the deep emotional suffering of surviving family members.
I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Danny Torrez II during this difficult time.
Source: ABC7 Los Angeles