A pedestrian lost his life Monday night after being struck by a speeding driver on Van Nuys Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley. The driver, suspected of operating the vehicle under the influence, fled the scene before being located and taken into custody hours later. Authorities announced the arrest on Tuesday, May 6, booking the suspect on a charge of murder.
What Happened
The collision occurred around 10:25 p.m. on Monday, May 4, at the intersection of Van Nuys Boulevard and Sherman Way. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, a white Mercedes-Benz was heading southbound on Van Nuys Boulevard at what investigators described as an unsafe rate of speed when it struck a man crossing within a marked crosswalk. The force of the impact sent the victim onto the roadway. The driver did not remain at the scene and continued north on Van Nuys Boulevard.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics responded to the intersection and pronounced the pedestrian deceased at the scene. His identity was withheld pending notification of next of kin. LAPD Valley Traffic Division detectives launched a hit-and-run investigation and issued a crime broadcast. Officers later located a vehicle matching the description in the 6000 block of Alcove Avenue in North Hollywood and took the driver into custody without incident. The suspect was identified as Jose Maranon and transported to Van Nuys Jail, where he was booked on one count of murder under Penal Code 187(a). His bail was set at $2 million.
Injuries and Community Impact
The pedestrian, described as a man in his 30s, was pronounced dead at the scene. A crosswalk — designed to provide safe passage — became the site of a fatal collision, raising renewed concerns about DUI driving and pedestrian safety along this stretch of the San Fernando Valley. The Valley Traffic Division is continuing its investigation and is asking anyone with information to contact Detective Barragan at 818-644-8028 or Officer Freeman at 818-644-8115.
Understanding Your Legal Rights After a Pedestrian Accident
When a pedestrian is struck and killed due to an impaired or reckless driver, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. California law allows families to seek compensation for loss of financial support, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and other damages. In cases involving DUI, a driver may face both criminal charges and civil liability simultaneously. Working with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney can help families understand their options and navigate the claims process at no out-of-pocket cost.
If your family has been affected by a serious pedestrian accident in the San Fernando Valley area, you do not have to face this process alone. Our North Hollywood office is here to provide compassionate, experienced legal guidance. contact us for a free consultation today at no cost and with no obligation — we do not collect a fee unless we win your case.
Source: MYNEWSLA
The map below showsVan Nuys Boulevard near where the tragic accident occurred.
