9-Year-Old Killed in Traffic Collision

August 8, 2001

"9-Year-Old Killed In Traffic Collision"
 

Los Angeles: On Wednesday, June 13, 2001 at approximately 2:40 P.M., a vehicle versus pedestrian traffic collision occurred on Bronson Avenue near Carlton Way in the Hollywood area of Los Angeles. Rebecca Gayheart, a 29-year-old resident of Los Angeles, was driving a 1996 Jeep Cherokee northbound Bronson Avenue. She entered a two way left turn lane with the intent to pass other northbound vehicles that had slowed. Several vehicles had come to a stop to allow 9-year-old Jorge Cruz to cross the street. Jorge Cruz lived in the area and was crossing about 160 feet south of the nearest intersection. As Cruz reached the center of the roadway he was struck by Gayheart’s vehicle which was estimated by witnesses to be traveling in excess of 40 miles per hour. Cruz sustained severe head trauma and was transported to Children’s Hospital by Los Angeles Fire Department Paramedics. Cruz remained in critical condition until 9:10 A.M. the next morning when he was pronounced dead due to injuries he sustained in the collision.
The follow-up investigation is on going and being conducted by West Traffic Division Detectives. Upon completion of the investigation, the case will be reviewed by the District Attorney’s Office for possible filing of criminal charges.
For further information regarding this press release, please contact Media Relations Section at 213-485-3586. This press release was prepared by Officer Hayley Purece.