A tragic incident occurred in Koreatown, Los Angeles, where a Korean man in his 60s died two days after being struck by an electric scooter on a sidewalk, causing him to hit his head severely on the ground.
The suspect fled the scene without checking the victim’s condition and is currently wanted on a hit-and-run charge.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), a hit-and-run report was received around 4:50 p.m. on September 12, near Vermont Avenue and James M. Wood Boulevard in Koreatown, where an electric scooter struck a pedestrian before fleeing. Police and paramedics arrived at the scene and found the Korean victim, administering first aid on-site.
Witnesses, along with the victim, identified as Mr. Kim, reported that a couple, believed to be Hispanic and in their 30s, were riding separate electric scooters. The female rider failed to see the victim and struck him. Without checking the victim’s condition, she immediately fled in the opposite direction.
Despite no visible injuries, Mr. Kim refused hospital transport from paramedics and returned home, only to pass away two days later after showing signs of a concussion.
It was reported that Mr. Kim was on his way to visit a nearby Korean restaurant when the accident occurred. The LAPD’s West Traffic Division, responsible for managing traffic in Koreatown, is investigating the case as a felony hit-and-run.
West Traffic Detective Osborne, who is leading the investigation, stated that the exact cause of the victim’s death is pending the coroner’s report.
Detective Osborne explained, “Two years ago, there was a case where an intoxicated electric scooter driver struck and killed a pedestrian, leading to DUI and manslaughter charges.
Riding electric scooters on sidewalks is illegal.” He further emphasized, “In situations like this, it is crucial to immediately call 911 and gather as many witnesses as possible for the investigation.”
BY YOUNGNAM KIM [kim.youngnam@koreadaily.com]
