The Los Angeles Police Department is on the hunt for the drivers responsible for a fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of a 65-year-old man early Saturday morning. According to LAPD Newsroom, the victim was crossing the street outside of a marked crosswalk on Western Avenue, south of Washington Boulevard, when he was struck by a black pick-up truck that continued driving and left the scene. A second vehicle is believed to have struck the man while he lay in the road, also failing to stop.

The incident occurred around 1:45 a.m. on April 28, and despite efforts by Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics to rapidly save the man's life, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The name of the victim has yet to be released to the public. The LAPD has since issued a plea for witnesses to come forward to aid in identifying the individuals involved in this tragic event.

In a bid to encourage public assistance, the LAPD reminds citizens about the Hit-and-Run Reward Program Trust Fund, which offers up to $50,000 for information that leads to the apprehension and conviction of suspects in hit-and-run cases. This initiative, aimed to combat such incidents, was established by the City Council on April 15, 2015, after an amendment to the Los Angeles Administrative Code.

Law enforcement officials stress the importance of driver responsibility, stating, "Drivers are reminded that if they become involved in a collision, they should pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene to identify themselves." These are critical steps that ought to be instinctive, yet evidently, require reiteration in light of such events.

Those with any information related to the hit-and-run are urged to contact the West Traffic Division detectives at (213) 473-0234, or anonymously call LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or utilize the “P3 Tips” mobile application. The LAPD has assured that any help that leads to finding those culpable could be rewarded handsomely.