(Pacoima, CA) A woman was killed Friday evening, January 30, after a driver struck her and fled the scene at a busy intersection in a Van Nuys Boulevard hit-and-run.
Los Angeles Police Department officers responded around 5:50 p.m. to the area of Van Nuys Boulevard and Glenoaks Avenue. When officers arrived, they found an elderly woman who had suffered fatal injuries after being struck while crossing the street.
Paramedics arrived shortly after and pronounced the woman dead at the scene. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner later identified the victim as Thelma Moreno, 75, a resident of Pacoima.
Investigators said a black Dodge Durango traveled eastbound on Van Nuys Boulevard, east of Glenoaks Avenue. At some point, it struck Moreno as she crossed the roadway. Police said the driver did not stop and continued eastbound without rendering aid.
Authorities did not release information about speed, traffic signals, or lighting conditions. Several details remained unknown as detectives continued reviewing evidence and canvassing the area for information.
Overview on the Van Nuys Boulevard Hit-And-Run
When a fatal collision involves a pedestrian and a fleeing driver, investigators review traffic safety laws to understand what factors may have contributed, without assigning fault prematurely. These reviews focus on pedestrian right-of-way, driver awareness, and the legal duty to stop after a collision.
Because the driver fled the scene, investigators will closely examine the Hit-and-Run Law. This law requires drivers involved in collisions that cause injury or death to stop, provide identifying information, and render reasonable assistance. Leaving the scene often delays emergency care and carries serious criminal penalties once the driver is identified.
Authorities may also review the Duty of Care to Pedestrians Law. This law requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians, even when a pedestrian is outside a marked crosswalk. Drivers must remain alert in busy corridors like Van Nuys Boulevard, especially during evening hours.
If speed or reaction time becomes a factor, investigators could consider the Basic Speed Law. This law requires motorists to travel at speeds reasonable for traffic, visibility, and roadway conditions. Wide arterial roads can encourage higher speeds, which reduce stopping distance and increase injury severity. These statutes help guide the investigation into the Van Nuys Boulevard hit-and-run as detectives continue evaluating evidence.
Support for the Family
If you are related to Thelma Moreno or are supporting her loved ones, staying in contact with investigators can help you receive updates and obtain the official police and coroner reports.
You may also consider speaking with a legal professional experienced in fatal hit-and-run cases to better understand your options and next steps. Emotional support is critical after sudden loss, and leaning on family members, friends, or grief counseling resources can help during a very difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
