Los Angeles: On August 25, 2002 at approximately 11:30 p.m., Bridgett Brazel, 28 years of age, attempted to cross Vermont Avenue at 65^th Street when she was struck by a vehicle. According to witnesses, Brazel was inside the unmarked crosswalk crossing Vermont Avenue in a westerly direction. As Brazel, reached the northbound number one lane, she was struck by a brown 1981 Ford F-250 pick up truck traveling north on Vermont in the number one lane. After the collision, the driver fled the scene and made no attempt to identify himself or render aid.

After observing the collision, a witness chased the fleeing truck as he called 9-1-1. While following the hit and run driver, the witness provided the operator with a full description of the vehicle and his current location.

The witness followed the hit and run vehicle and observed the driver pull over on Slauson Avenue and Bonsallo. The witness further observed the driver and a male passenger exit the truck. At which time, the driver began to pull on the front fender, which was damaged in the collision.

Approximately five minutes later, Los Angeles Police Officers from 77^th Area arrived, and placed the driver, later identified as, 49-year-old Jose German Quintanilla, of Los Angeles into custody. The suspect was placed under arrest for Felony Vehicular Manslaughter.

The Los Angeles Fire Department responded and pronounced Bridgett Brazel dead at scene.

Anyone with additional information regarding this collision is urged to contact South Traffic Detectives, 323-290-6063. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24- hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Lucy Diaz, Media Relation Section, 213-485-3586.