A Korean man in his 60s was fatally struck by an electric scooter illegally operating on a sidewalk in Los Angeles’ Koreatown. The suspect fled the scene, prompting the LAPD to launch an investigation.
According to the LAPD, the incident occurred on September 12 near the intersection of James M. Wood Blvd. and South Westmoreland Ave., on the western edge of Koreatown. The victim, identified as Donny Kim, 65, was hit by a woman riding an electric scooter on the sidewalk. The impact caused Kim to fall backward, hitting his head on the ground.
LAPD spokesperson Rosario Cervantes stated, “The hit-and-run incident was reported at approximately 4:50 p.m. The victim received emergency care at the scene but was not transported to the hospital.”
After returning home, Kim’s condition worsened as he complained of pain and began vomiting. He was taken to the hospital later that day but sadly passed away two days later on September 14.
CCTV footage released by the LAPD shows a couple, believed to be the suspect and another individual, riding electric scooters on the sidewalk near James M. Wood Blvd., heading toward Vermont Ave. Around 4:48 p.m., the woman riding ahead collided with Kim as he exited a parking lot onto the sidewalk. Kim was knocked to the ground, and while the couple appeared to check on him briefly, they fled the scene on their scooters before police arrived.
According to FOX11, Kim had just parked his car and was crossing the street with his wife, Jenny Kim, to a nearby restaurant for dinner when the accident occurred.
In an interview, Jenny Kim stated that her husband was bleeding from the back of his head but refused to be taken to the hospital when emergency services arrived, opting instead for treatment at the scene. She also revealed that she had urged the scooter rider to stay at the scene, but the woman fled shortly after.
These vehicles pose a significant threat, especially to seniors, who may find it difficult to avoid fast-moving scooters.
The LAPD is actively searching for the suspect based on CCTV footage and witness testimonies. The Olympic Division of the LAPD, handling the case, is encouraging additional witnesses to come forward with any relevant information (213-382-9102).
The tragic loss is compounded by the fact that Kim and his wife were planning to travel to Korea next month to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary.
BY KYEONGJUN KIM, YOUNGNAM KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
