Once again, a bike rider has lost his life at the hands of a hit-and-run driver.
But this time, the police have given him — or her — a ready-made excuse for the crime.
According to a statement by the LAPD, 24-year old Maywood resident Jaime Ramirez was killed by the driver of a semi-truck at Lynwood Ave and 8th Street in Boyle Heights around 9:30 pm Friday night.
Ramirez was riding south on Lynwood, splitting lanes between a car and the semi, when he either lost control of his bike or was hit by one of the drivers as he neared 8th, and somehow fell under the rear wheels of the truck.
The driver kept going without stopping, failing to notice — or ignoring — a witness chasing behind in his car, honking and flashing his lights.
Despite frantic efforts to save his life, Ramirez died at the scene.
Unfortunately the driver received an alibi in advance, courtesy of the LAPD, who said he or she may not be aware they’d hit anyone.
So now all the driver has to do to get away with it is claim just that, regardless of whether it has any basis in fact.
The truck was described as an all-white semi with sleeper cab and a box trailer, and no visible logos or other markings, California license 4MY4587. Police believe the driver may be on the way to Fresno.
As always, there is a standing $50,000 reward from the City of Los Angeles for any fatal hit-and-run.
This is at least the 32nd bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, and the 13th that I’m aware of in Los Angeles County; it’s also the seventh in the City of Los Angeles.
My deepest sympathy and prayers for Jaime Ramirez and all his family and loved ones.
Thanks to Megan Lynch and John Dammon for the heads-up.
https://twitter.com/LAPDCTD24/status/1134978265284636672
