A 65-year-old Chicago man was fatally struck by a vehicle in South Los Angeles on April 27, 2026, while visiting family and planning to attend a Dodgers-Cubs game. The collision occurred near the intersection of South Figueroa Street and 75th Street, when a northbound vehicle traveling at high speed struck the man as he was on foot — and the driver fled the scene without stopping. Detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department have been working the case since and this week announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
What Happened
Jose “Joey” Melesio, 65, of Chicago, had traveled to Los Angeles to visit family and was looking forward to attending the Dodgers-Cubs series that weekend. He was on foot near the intersection of South Figueroa Street and 75th Street when a vehicle traveling northbound at a high rate of speed struck him. The driver did not stop to check on the victim or provide any assistance, and the vehicle left the scene immediately. Melesio was not able to survive his injuries. Authorities describe the suspect vehicle as a small four-door sedan, possibly white, gray, or silver in color.
Emergency Response and Investigation
The Los Angeles Police Department responded to the scene and opened a felony hit-and-run investigation. Detectives, including LAPD Detective Ryan Moreno, have been working to identify the responsible driver. Investigators noted that while surveillance footage from the area was reviewed, no clear image of the driver has been obtained. Authorities have since asked local auto body shops to contact them if anyone recently brought in a small, light-colored sedan with fresh front-end damage. The case remains active.
Injuries and Community Impact
Melesio did not survive the collision. His family, including cousin Oscar Flores, has spoken publicly, remembering him as a devoted and loving member of the family who was cherished by his nephews, nieces, and cousins. The family has organized a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses and to bring him home to Chicago. The community impact of a hit-and-run that claims a visitor to our city is a painful reminder of the dangers pedestrians face on busy urban streets. A $50,000 reward has been announced by the LAPD to encourage anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward.
Understanding Your Legal Rights After a Pedestrian Accident
Pedestrian accidents involving hit-and-run drivers raise serious legal questions around liability, insurance coverage, and the rights of victims and their families. In California, families who have lost a loved one in a hit-and-run may have options to pursue compensation through uninsured motorist coverage and civil action once the responsible driver is identified. Working with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney can help families understand what steps to take, especially while an active criminal investigation is underway. Evidence preservation and timely legal guidance are critical in these cases.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a pedestrian accident in the Los Angeles area, you should not have to face the aftermath alone. Text Kevin Accident Attorneys by Crockett Law Group serves the Los Angeles community and is ready to review your case at no cost. Please contact us for a free consultation to speak with our team.
Source: ABC7
The map below shows South Figueroa Street and 75th Streetnear where the tragic accident occurred.
