(Panorama City, CA) Neighbors stepped out to sirens and flashing lights after a Woodman Avenue hit-and-run left Gary Schombert dead near Strathern Street.
On Sunday, September 28, at 9:35 p.m., authorities received reports of a scooter rider struck at Woodman Avenue and Strathern Street. Los Angeles police said a gray Honda sedan, traveling north on Woodman. At some point, they hit 34-year-old Gary Schombert as he rode a motorized scooter northbound. When officers arrived, they secured the intersection and called in paramedics.
Paramedics pronounced Schombert dead at the scene, according to police and the County medical examiner. Investigators said a second northbound vehicle then struck the scooter and that driver is cooperating with detectives. Officers canvassed for witnesses and requested nearby video to clarify the sequence. LAPD’s Valley Traffic Division asked anyone with information to call 818-644-8025, or 877-527-3247 after hours; anonymous tips can go to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. Police said the investigation into the Woodman Avenue hit-and-run is ongoing.
Legal Brief on Woodman Avenue Hit-and-Run
First, prosecutors focus on duty to stop and render aid when a crash causes injury or death. California Vehicle Code 20001 requires drivers involved in such collisions to stop, remain at the scene, provide information. Afterwards, they must assist the injured; leaving can bring felony consequences. In the case of Gary Schombert, investigators will compare what each driver did in the minutes after impact against those statutory duties.
Investigators will seek surveillance video, vehicle damage patterns, and lighting measurements. Bodily injury coverage from the fleeing driver, if identified, is primary. If not, the family may look to Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage on a household policy. These steps align with standard evidence and insurance considerations in fatal hit-and-run cases.
Per criminal and civil timelines, early preservation matters. Subpoenas for nearby video should issue quickly because footage overwrites, and counsel can send spoliation letters to lock down vehicle and data evidence.
What the Family of Gary Schombert Should Do Now
For Schombert’s family, the moment feels overwhelming. Since the Woodman Avenue Hit-and-Run took his life, California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60 may apply. close relatives of Gary Schombert can bring a wrongful death claim. They may seek funeral costs, lost financial support, and the value of household services. They may also seek the loss of love, companionship, care, and guidance.
If police identify the driver, a lawsuit can hold them accountable. While the search continues, the family can review uninsured motorist coverage. That coverage can sometimes help in hit-and-run deaths. Quick action matters. An attorney can track the investigation and work to identify the vehicle. They can request nearby camera footage before systems delete it. They can send preservation letters to businesses and vehicle owners near Woodman and Strathern.
Nothing removes the harm. Legal action can bring accountability and financial stability while the family navigates this difficult time.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
