Hit-and-run: Man killed crossing street

VAN NUYS, Calif. (KABC) -- Police made an arrest just hours after a man was killed in a hit-and-run accident in Van Nuys. The 19-year-old driver is in custody facing felony charges for killing the 59-year-old.

Police have identified the 19-year-old as Joel Morales of Tarzana, Calif. Morales is under arrest and being accused of felony hit-and-run.

LAPD say around 7:30 p.m. Saturday night, Morales was driving his 1992 green Honda Accord in Van Nuys when he hit a man crossing the street. The 59-year-old victim had just parked his car and was headed toward his apartment near the intersection of Hazeltine Avenue and Amelita Street. Police say Morales fled the scene and never stopped.

The victim was taken to Sherman Oaks Hospital, but did not survive. His name has not yet been released. Authorities are still trying to locate any family the man might have here in Southern California.

Authorities got a phone call from two residents in Reseda who said they saw two people trying to conceal a dented Honda Accord.

"They got involved, they contacted the Los Angeles Police Department, where we were able to respond and follow up leads," said Detective Bill Bustos from the LAPD. "We were able to collect evidence, impound the vehicle, and eventually make a follow-up to the residents of the person who committed this crime."

Police say they are very thankful to the residents who called in the tip.

 

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