KTLA news has reported  that the search is on for the driver of a SUV that struck and killed a 6 year-old girl in South Los Angeles.  The victim, Kemberly Arrue, was playing with a ball near her home in the 600 block of West 49th Place around 10:00 p.m. yesterday when the ball rolled into the street.  Arrue was struck by a dark-colored SUV, but the driver never stopped.  The Los Angeles Police Department is asking for the public's help in identifying and locating the driver.   The only description of the vehicle is that it was dark colored and likely has front-end damage.

See the KTLA news story and photograph HERE.

This tragic accident is one that pulls at the heart strings.  It is shocking to think of a driver being so callous as to hit a little girl, 6 years of age, and not even stop to help.  From the Google Earth view of the neighborhood, the street is narrow and there are only single family homes nearby.  It would not appear to have been difficult to identify the girl's home and her family, after the accident.  While  little more than speculation at this point, it seems a logical inference the driver was in the process of doing something illegal behind the wheel of the SUV (either speeding or driving while intoxicated) at the time of the accident.  In fact, the driver's flight from the scene may even be used in court as evidence of "consciousness of guilt."

Compensation for victims of fatal hit and run accidents should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a driver negligently causes an accident and then flees the scene, they should be held accountable.  An Orange County trial lawyer with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has 20 years years of experience handling personal injury and wrongful death cases, including just this type.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured in an automobile versus motorcycle accident?

• Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above.  This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter.  A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.