Los Angeles - On Tuesday, March 27, 2001 at approximately 3:45 P.M., a fatal traffic collision occurred at the intersection of Sycamore Avenue and 8^th Street, in the Wilshire Area. Derrick Wallace, a 37 year-old resident of Moreno Valley, was traveling southbound on Sycamore Avenue at 8^th Street in a 2001 Chevrolet Blazer when his vehicle failed to stop at the posted stop sign. Mr. Wallace's vehicle was struck by a 1995 Jeep Cherokee, traveling westbound on 8^th Street, driven by 51 year-old Yong Sim Lee. After the collision with Mr. Lee's vehicle, Mr. Wallace's vehicle continued southbound Sycamore Avenue, lost control, and collided with 5 additional parked vehicles.

Mr. Wallace's vehicle overturned and he was ejected from the vehicle. Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics transported Wallace to Cedar Sinai Medical Center where he was pronounced dead due to blunt force trauma.

Further investigation revealed that the 2001 Chevrolet Blazer driven by Mr. Wallace had been stolen from Walker Body Works earlier in the day. The driver of the Jeep Cherokee was released at the scene. No charges have been filed at this time, pending completion of the investigation.

West Traffic Detectives are handling the investigation. For further information regarding this release, please contact Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586.

This press release was prepared by Officer Hayley Purece, Media Relations Section.