DUI Driver Kills Bicyclist

July 4, 2007

Los Angles: In the early morning hours of 4th of July, a DUI driver collided with a bicycle resulted in the death of the rider.

At about 7:00 AM, the bicyclist was eastbound on 4th Street in the curb lanes approaching Cumming Street. A 1995 Ford Taurus, which was also traveling eastbound in the number two lane, collided into the rear of the bicycle. The bicyclist suffered head trauma and died at the scene.

Officers responded to the collision scene and determined that the driver of the Taurus was Under the Influence of Alcohol and was placed under arrest for Felony Vehicular Manslaughter. He has been identified as Felipe Jesus Godoy, 35, of Los Angeles. He is being held on a $100,000 bail.

The bicyclist has been identified as Leonides Lopez, 49, of Los Angeles.

Central Traffic Detectives are conducting the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Josephine Mapson at 213-972-1825. On weekends or off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).