Los Angeles: A driver, suspected of driving under the influence and driving recklessly crashed his speeding vehicle into two pedestrians Sunday night, killing them both.
On July 13, 2008, at around 9:00 p.m., a West Traffic Division Officer was in the area of Highland Avenue near Camrose Avenue when he observed a 2005 Honda Civic travelling on the wrong side of the road (southbound in the northbound lanes of Highland Avenue.) The driver, later identified as 29 year old Sergio Delgado, continued driving erratically, making unsafe lane changes, speeding, and dangerously passing other vehicles in an area congested with vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
With great concern for public safety, the Officer initiated a traffic stop in an effort to put an immediate stop to Delgado’s reckless behavior. Delgado stopped briefly, at which time a passenger got out of the car. Delgado however, continued speeding southbound on Highland, again crossing over the dividing line into the oncoming traffic lanes, and continuing to run red lights along Highland Boulevard before turning eastbound onto Hollywood Boulevard.
Due to Delgado’s total disregard for public safety and his refusal to stop his car, the Officer went in pursuit and requested a backup unit and department police air unit to assist in capturing this dangerous suspect. Delgado in his attempt to elude capture was able to create a two-block distance between himself and the Officer. Delgado continued driving with wanton disregard for public safety eastbound on Hollywood Boulevard. When he got to Wilcox Avenue Delgado’s vehicle hit two pedestrians walking northbound in the crosswalk.
Continuing eastbound on Hollywood Boulevard, Delgado ran the red light, failing to stop to render aid and identify himself as is required by law. As Delgado neared Cahuenga Boulevard he stopped his car and attempted to run from the scene. Two witnesses were able to prevent Delgado from escaping and held him until Hollywood Division Officers arrived and took him into custody.
The two victims, a male and female Hispanic in their late 20’s, died at the scene. Detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying the pair, who did not have any identification on them. The female victim was wearing a turquoise blue top, beige shorts, and blue sandals. The male victim was wearing a white T-shirt with “Welcome to Hollywood” printed on the front, olive green pants, and black work boots.
Delgado was booked for Murder and is being held on $1 million dollars bail. The passenger in Delgado’s vehicle has not been identified, but Detectives want to speak with him and are asking for the public’s help in identifying and locating him.
Anyone with information about the this crime should contact West Traffic Detective Nelson Hernandez or Officer Lee Wilmon at 213-473-0234. During off hours and weekends call the toll free Detective Tip Line at 1-877-LAWFULL.
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