Street racing likely behind fatal Commerce hit-and-run crash

COMMERCE, Calif. (KABC) -- A man was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver in Commerce, and police say racing may have played a part.

Jose Torres, 19, was struck near Randolph Street and Eastern Avenue, in an area known for street racing - particularly on Thursday nights, which is when the incident occurred.

Detectives say the victim was likely watching a street race when he was hit by a passing vehicle going upwards of 80 mph. Detectives say there were no skid marks found at the scene, indicating the driver didn't even hit the brakes.

Torres' best friend, Memo Tapia, said he wants the driver caught and brought to justice.

Candles were placed on the curb near the impact site in Torres' memory. Mourners are calling for an end to the deadly races here.

Sean Solouki is a business owner who says over the years, he wrote several letters to the city and county wanting a solution and got nowhere.

"I have a major concern about it. I think speed bumps would be great help," Solouki said.

Authorities are looking for a 2003 or 2004 dark colored Toyota Tacoma. Typically, pickup trucks are not involved in drag racing, so it is still unknown if that truck was part of a race.

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