Police in Panorama City are searching for the driver who struck and killed a man traveling on a motorized scooter Sunday.
The crash was reported just after 9:30 p.m. near the intersection of Woodman Avenue and Strathern Street, the department said. There, the victim was traveling north on Woodman Avenue when a vehicle traveling in the same direction hit him.
After the initial crash, a second vehicle struck the victim. The driver in the second vehicle is cooperating with investigators but the first driver fled the scene.
Surveillance footage showed the moment the first driver hit the victim. The vehicle appeared to be a gray-colored Honda sedan, according to the department.
LAPD described the victim as a man in his early 30s. Although police haven’t released the name of the victim, his loved ones identified him as 34-year-old Gary “Kike” Schombert.
Family and friends of Schombert gathered at the site of the crash for a memorial in his honor. His portraits, candles and flowers were placed nearby.
“This is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to endure — to get a call that my sibling is gone and try to be present, knowing that I had no control, is very difficult,” said David Gonzalez, the victim’s brother.
While Schombert’s loved ones navigate their grief, they’re urging anyone with information to come forward.
“If anyone’s seen anything, seen damage on a car, just call it in and report it,” said Maria Gonzalez, the victim’s sister. “That’s all we care about, some justice.”
A reward of up to $50,000 is being offered to anyone who can provide information that’ll lead to the identification or arrest of the first driver. Further description of that individual’s vehicle was not immediately available.
Anyone with information on the case is urged to contact LAPD’s West Valley Traffic Division Investigator Ramirez at 818064408025 or Investigator Reyes at 818-644-8114. Anonymous tips can be made by contacting Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS.
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
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