A 32-year-old white woman who fatally struck a Korean man in his 60s while illegally riding an electric scooter on a Koreatown sidewalk has been arrested a month after the incident.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) announced on October 8 the arrest of Devin Nichole Eiland on charges of hit-and-run and manslaughter. The incident occurred on September 12, near James M. Wood Boulevard and South Westmoreland Avenue, where Eiland, riding a scooter at 18 mph, struck Donny Kim, 65. After the collision, Eiland and her husband fled the scene.
Following the accident, Kim opted for on-site first aid instead of hospital transport. However, his condition worsened after he returned home, complaining of pain and vomiting. Despite being rushed to the hospital later that day, Kim passed away two days later.
Investigators were able to identify Eiland by matching details from her Instagram post, including descriptions of the incident and her appearance, leading to her arrest.
Eiland has a prior record, having been charged in June last year with possession of fentanyl and attempted vehicle theft. She was also accused of violating probation terms, according to the LAPD.
BY BRIAN CHOI, YOUNGNAM KIM [ichoi@koreadaily.com]
