Los Angeles: On April 23, 2004 at approximately 6:00 p.m., a fatal traffic collision occurred at Colden Avenue and Hoover Street. Uzziel Bahena, thirteen years of age, was riding his bicycle southbound on Hoover Street when he was struck by a vehicle. The vehicle then drove away from the scene failing to stop and render aid to the boy.

A witness to the incident followed the vehicle westbound on Colden Avenue to Vermont Avenue and blocked the vehicle until the police arrived. The boy was transported to a local area hospital for emergency treatment. The boy failed to respond and died from his injuries.

The investigation revealed the driver was westbound on Colden Avenue approaching Hoover Street when he swerved into the eastbound lanes of Colden Avenue, failed to stop for a red tri-light signal, and struck the boy on his bicycle.

Rene Hernandez, 27 years of age, was arrested for Vehicular Manslaughter and driving under the influence. The investigation is being conducted by South Traffic Division Detectives and they can be contacted at 323-290-6063.

This news release was prepared by Officer Sandra Escalante, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.