(Pacoima, CA) Authorities have identified the pedestrian killed in a hit-and-run Van Nuys Boulevard accident Sunday night as Juan Villegas Martinez, 53, of Pacoima, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The fatal crash happened around 10 p.m. in the 13200 block of Van Nuys Boulevard near Ralston Avenue. Upon investigating, police said Martinez crossed the intersection diagonally. Moments later, a white Chevrolet Silverado pickup traveling southbound struck him.
By the time paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived, they pronounced Martinez. The driver did not stop and was last seen heading north on Sutter Avenue from Van Nuys Boulevard, according to witnesses. The Los Angeles Police Department’s Valley Traffic Division continues to search for the suspect vehicle. LAPD released footage of the suspect vehicle. Anyone with information is asked to contact Investigator James Takishita at 818-644-8116.
Perspective on the Van Nuys Boulevard Accident
Hit-and-run collisions like the one that killed Juan Villegas Martinez are among the most tragic and frustrating cases for investigators and families. Leaving the scene of a fatal crash not only breaks the law but also denies victims the immediate aid that could have saved their life.
The key statute in this case is the Hit-and-Run Statute. This makes it a felony for any driver involved in a crash causing injury or death to flee. Since the driver fled without providing assistance or identifying themselves, this can result in felony charges. Drivers are required to stop, call for help, and remain at the scene until authorities arrive.
Because this incident involved a pedestrian, California Vehicle Code 21950 may also apply. It requires motorists to yield to pedestrians crossing at intersections and to exercise due care to avoid collisions. Even when a person crosses outside a crosswalk, drivers must remain alert and prepared to slow or stop.
Investigators continue to review security footage and witness statements to identify the hit-and-run driver responsible for the Van Nuys Boulevard accident.
Support for Martinez’s Family
The loss of a loved one to a hit-and-run is devastating, and the search for justice can feel overwhelming. If you are a relative of Juan Villegas Martinez, you can request updates and a copy of the official collision report from the LAPD’s Valley Traffic Division once the investigation concludes.
The Los Angeles County Victim Assistance Program offers grief counseling, financial aid, and advocacy for families affected by fatal crashes. You may also wish to consult a wrongful death attorney to help protect your rights and ensure accountability for those responsible for the Van Nuys Boulevard accident.
