(Los Angeles, CA) A 37-year-old pedestrian was killed early Thursday morning, February 26, in a Ninth Street DUI collision.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the crash occurred around 2:10 a.m. at the intersection of Ninth Street and Towne Avenue. Investigators said the pedestrian walked south on Ninth Street when he was struck by a red Nissan Kicks.
Police reported the Nissan traveled eastbound in the westbound lanes of Ninth Street when the collision occurred. The driver was identified as Orlando Larios, 22. His city of residence was not released.
Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene and pronounced the pedestrian dead. Authorities did not immediately provide the victim’s name or additional identifying information. That information remained pending notification of next of kin.
Central Traffic Division officers conducted a preliminary investigation at the scene. According to an LAPD statement, officers determined Larios was under the influence of an alcoholic beverage at the time of the crash. He was arrested and booked on suspicion of felony DUI.
Detectives continued reviewing evidence and speaking with witnesses as the investigation into the Ninth Street DUI collision remained ongoing.
Analysis on the Ninth Street DUI Collision
When a fatal crash involves allegations of impaired driving and wrong-way travel, investigators review traffic safety laws to understand what factors may have contributed, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews often focus on impairment, lane usage, and speed.
Because police alleged the driver was intoxicated, authorities will examine the Driving Under the Influence Law. This law prohibits operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Investigators typically rely on field sobriety evaluations, chemical tests, and officer observations when determining impairment.
Since the vehicle was reportedly traveling in opposing lanes, officials may also consider the Driving on the Wrong Side of the Roadway Law. This statute prohibits driving against designated traffic flow except in limited circumstances. Wrong-way travel significantly increases the risk of severe or fatal collisions.
Authorities may further review the Basic Speed Law if speed becomes relevant. This law requires drivers to operate at speeds reasonable for traffic and roadway conditions. These combined statutes help guide LAPD’s evaluation of the Ninth Street DUI collision as evidence continues to be analyzed.
How the Family Can Move Forward
If you are related to the pedestrian or are supporting his loved ones, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and request official police and coroner reports when they become available.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional to better understand your options after a fatal DUI crash. Emotional support from family members, friends, or grief counseling services can be especially important during a sudden and devastating loss.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
