Once again, a heartless coward has taken the life of an innocent person.
This time, it happened in South Gate, where a bike rider killed last night.
According to KTLA-5, a man was riding east in the crosswalk on Imperial Highway at the South Gate onramp to the northbound 710 Freeway when the driver of a large black Ford SUV or pickup truck slammed into him around 11:30 pm.
The driver fled onto the freeway, leaving the victim, who has not been publicly identified, to die at the scene.
The crash occurred just steps from the entrance to the LA River bike path.
Given the hour and location, there’s a good chance the victim was homeless. Which doesn’t reduce the tragedy, or the severity of the crime, in any way.
Anyone with information is urged to call CHP Officer J. Vargas at 323/980-4600.
This is at least the 35th bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, and the 14th that I’m aware of in Los Angeles County.
Update: The victim has been identified as 67-year old Manuel Coronel, described as a homeless man.
My deepest sympathy and prayers for Manuel Coronel and his loved ones.
