Los Angeles: On Monday, May 26, 2003, at approximately 10:38 p.m., a traffic collision occurred on Vernon Avenue east of Avalon Boulevard.

The victim, a 47 year-old female, Black, was attempting to cross from the south side of Vernon Avenue to the north side, when she was struck by an unknown type beige vehicle. According to witnesses, the victim was a mental health patient living in the area near the collision. Witnesses recall hearing the collision, at which time they observed the victim airborne.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene and transported the victim to a local hospital where she later died. The identity of the victim will not be released until after her relatives have been notified.

No suspects have been identified. This is an on-going investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Central Traffic Detectives at 213-485-3111. On weekends and off-hours, please call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at, 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Adriana N. Sanchez, Media Relations Sections, 213-485-3586.