Fatal Hit and Run Suspect Arrested

February 14, 2006

Los Angeles:  On February 12, 2006, at approximately 5:15 p.m., a fatal traffic collision occurred at the intersection of Vermont Avenue and 82nd Street in Southeast Division.
A male victim was walking across Vermont Avenue when he was hit by a 2002 Lincoln LS that was travelling northbound on Vermont Avenue at 82nd Street. The impact caused the victim to go airborne and land on the street.  The suspect continued on Vermont Avenue. 
The victim was taken to California Hospital with fractures to his rib, a broken vertebrae and other injuries. The victim died a short time later.
The identity of the victim has not been released pending notification of his family.
Detectives conducted a follow up to the City of Hawthorne and found the driver of the Hit and Run vehicle.  The driver was identified as Vernon G. Pettaway a resident of Hawthorne. He was booked for Vehicular Manslaughter.
 
Mr. Pettaway will be arraigned for Vehicular Manslaughter on February 15, 2006 at 210 W. Temple Street, Criminal Court Building.  
 
For further information please contact South Traffic Division, at 323-290-6063.  On the weekend or during off-hours, the public can call the toll-free, 24-hour anonymous tip line at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).