(Santa Monica, CA) A Wilshire Boulevard accident resulted in the death of Brad Lipshy, 61, and Maura Cohen, 61, on Friday night, October 24, after a vehicle drove onto a sidewalk and struck four pedestrians, authorities said.
According to the Santa Monica Police Department, the crash occurred around 9:15 p.m. in the 1300 block of Wilshire Boulevard. Preliminary reports indicates that a vehicle traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes veered onto the south sidewalk, hitting four people.
When paramedics arrived at the crash site, paramedics pronounced Lipshy and Cohen dead at the scene. Two other pedestrians were taken to a nearby hospital and are expected to survive, officials said.
Investigators said the vehicle stayed at the scene, but the driver fled on foot before officers arrived. The suspect was described as a man about six feet tall, wearing a red hat, black sweater, and black shoes. Anyone with information regarding the death of Lipshy and Cohen are asked to contact the Santa Monica Police Department at 310-458-2201 ext. 5311 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Overview on the Wilshire Boulevard Accident
When a driver causes injury or death and flees, investigators look closely at the Hit-and-Run Statute. It requires anyone involved in a crash causing injury or death to remain at the scene, identify themselves, and assist the injured. Leaving on foot after a deadly crash is a serious violation of this law, leading to felony charges.
Because the vehicle reportedly traveled the wrong way, the Reckless Driving Law may also apply. It prohibits operating a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people. Driving against traffic and onto a sidewalk would likely be reviewed under this statute.
If speed contributed to the collision, investigators may also consider the Basic Speed Law. It requires drivers to maintain speeds that are reasonable and safe for conditions. Traveling at unsafe speeds in a business district or residential zone increases the risk of tragedy, as seen in the ongoing Wilshire Boulevard accident investigation.
Support for Lipshy’s and Cohen’s Family
If you are related to Brad Lipshy or Maura Cohen or the others who survived, you should stay in close contact with Santa Monica Police investigators. Ask for the official police report once it has been completed.
When ready, consider consulting an attorney experienced in wrongful-death and pedestrian-collision cases to discuss available legal options. It may also help to lean on community and grief-support groups in Santa Monica as you process this loss. Compassionate counseling and time surrounded by loved ones can be vital steps toward healing.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
