LOS ANGELES, CA – Authorities are asking for the public’s help in identifying a hit-and-run driver who struck and killed a 16-year-old boy riding a minibike in South Los Angeles early Sunday morning.
Officials with the Los Angeles Police Department said the collision occurred around 2 a.m. near San Pedro and 99th streets in the Green Meadows neighborhood. According to investigators, the teen was riding a minibike northbound when a dark-colored Toyota Corolla, traveling in the same direction, hit him. Firefighter-paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
Police said the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. The car was towed as evidence.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner and a family member identified the victim as Hayden Neighbors, a junior at John C. Fremont High School.
Authorities described the suspect as a man, possibly in his 20s, with a heavy build. It remains unclear whether drugs or alcohol were involved in the crash.
Residents in the area said minibikes, which are illegal to ride on public roads, are commonly seen in the neighborhood.
“I would rather them be doing that than doing something that would get them put in jail,” said South LA resident Laverne Lewis. “It’s time for everybody to pay attention because there’s too much happening right here.”
Police noted that many minibikes in the area are operated by minors and often lack essential safety equipment such as lights, mirrors, and turn signals.
Authorities urged witnesses or anyone with information about the suspect to come forward. Under California law, drivers involved in a collision must stop, notify emergency services, and remain at the scene.
The City of Los Angeles offers a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of hit-and-run suspects.
Anyone with information is asked to contact LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or submit a tip online at www.lacrimestoppers.org.
