A bicyclist was struck and killed by a hit and run driver in Arleta on Thursday morning.
The accident happened just after 2 a.m. near the intersection of Van Nuys Blvd. and Beachy Ave., in front of Arleta High School. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the driver of a silver sedan was traveling eastbound on Van Nuys Blvd., on the wrong side of the roadway. The driver struck three cars and a male bicyclist who was traveling westbound.
The bicyclist was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. The impact with the bicyclist was so strong that the cyclist's bike shattered into pieces.
The driver of the car initially stayed at the scene, but then fled on foot when the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived. He was shortly thereafter apprehended after he was found hiding behind his home at about 4 a.m. The police believe he was impaired by alcohol or drugs.
The name of the bicyclist has not been released, but family members have identified him as Eric Garcia, 52-years-old. According to his sister, at the time of the accident, her brother was out collecting cans to turn in for cash the next morning, something he did nightly. He has been disabled since he was hit by a car when in junior high school. He collected cans to support himself.
If you or a loved one has suffered injury or death as the result of a car accident, hit and run accident, or bicycle accident, a personal injury lawyer at McGee, Lerer & Associates is available 24-7 for a free consultation.