Pedestrian Killed in Hollywood Hit and Run

Police are still on the lookout for a driver who struck and killed a pedestrian in front of a bus stop early Friday morning in Hollywood.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the collision took place at approximately 3:20 a.m. on Santa Monica Boulevard, where a 22 year old transgender woman named Kemonta McKenzie was waiting for the bus. Witnesses were unable to make out the make or model of the vehicle, which quickly sped off into the night.

McKenzie was pronounced dead at the scene by responding officers. Those at the scene who knew her told police that she was a well-known figure in the community, and that she had called herself “Unique”. Anyone with any information about the vehicle or the driver involved is now being encouraged to contact the LAPD as soon as possible to assist in the ongoing investigation.

Hit and runs accident have become an epidemic throughout Los Angeles, as more than 14,000 incidents have been reported in 2013 alone, up more than 3% from the previous year. “It is truly a crisis,” says LAPD Commander Mike Williams, who spoke in front of the LA City Council earlier this month, giving several recommendations on how to limit the growing danger.

The council approved several of the proposed recommendations, including supporting new state legislation increasing the penalties for anyone caught leaving the scene of an accident.

In the unfortunate event of an accident, it is essential to remain at the scene and share necessary contact and insurance information with others involved, and with the police. Even in presumably insignificant collisions, injuries may result that do not immediately reveal themselves. By leaving the scene without making yourself known, you will only complicate the situation, potentially leading to criminal charges.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a hit and run accident, help may be available to you in the form of legal action. Depending on the circumstances that surround your ordeal, you may be entitled to compensation, which a Los Angeles car accident lawyer can help you recover in full.

At AA Accident Attorneys, we understand your legal rights after an accident and can help you get back on your feet. We have years of experience representing victims like you, and can guide you through the legal process safely. As always, we will not charge you for any of our legal services until your case is won; if we are unable to collect on your case, then you will not owe us anything. For more information on the kinds of services we can offer you, or for a free evaluation to discuss your available options, call us right away!