Los Angeles-On Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at approximately 8:35 a.m., 20-year old Jose Gerardo Vasquez, a resident of Los Angeles, was driving southbound in the curbside lane of Avalon Boulevard approaching 37^th Street in his 1999 Honda Civic. Before reaching 37^th Street, Vasquez’ vehicle collided with 24-year old Velentine Diaz, a resident of Los Angeles, who was also traveling in the curbside lane of Avalon Boulevard riding a bicycle.

Diaz was transported by ambulance to California Hospital where he failed to respond to treatment and was pronounced dead at 10:50 a.m.

Immediately after colliding with Diaz, Vasquez fled the scene. Witnesses followed Vasquez’ vehicle as he fled the scene and then called the police with the license plate number. Newton Area patrol officers conducted a follow up to the residence of the registered owner and located both Vasquez and the car.

Vasquez was later booked at Central Jail for Felony Hit and Run and Vehicular Manslaughter.

Central Traffic Detectives are conducting the investigation. For additional information contact Detective Tia Morris or Officer Cortez at 213-485-3111.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.