A skateboarder clings to life as detectives search for the driver of a gray Ford Focus who fled after slamming into him on a Chatsworth street.
At a Glance
- A gray Ford Focus swerved into a skateboarder last Thursday at 5:15 p.m. on Nordhoff Street near Lurline Avenue.
- The victim, a man in his 30s, was taken to a hospital in critical condition.
- The driver made a U-turn and fled without stopping or rendering aid.
- Why it matters: Public tips are needed to identify the specific vehicle, described as having fresh paint and taped lights.
The collision unfolded in seconds. Video released by the Los Angeles Police Department shows the skateboarder traveling westbound on Nordhoff Street, hugging the far right side of the road. A four-door, gray Ford Focus suddenly swerved and struck him.
The impact hurled the man off his board. He landed on the asphalt near the curb, motionless.
Instead of stopping, the driver continued east on Nordhoff, then executed a quick U-turn and sped away in the opposite direction.
“The driver failed to stop, identify themselves or render aid as required by law,” the LAPD said in a statement released Monday.
Investigators have narrowed their search to a very specific car. They want anyone who spots a gray Ford Focus with these features to call 911 immediately:
- Light gray repaint on the front right fender
- White tape around the edges of both rear headlamps
- Possible rear tinted windows
The victim remains hospitalized in critical condition. Detectives have not released his name, saying only that he is in his 30s.
No arrests have been announced. Police have not provided a description of the driver.
Anyone with information about the car or its whereabouts is urged to contact LAPD Valley Traffic Division detectives at 818-644-8032. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS. A reward of up to $25,000 is available for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
