On the night of September 9, 2026, a pedestrian in his 60s was fatally struck in a hit-and-run collision on the 1400 block of East Colorado Street in Glendale. The victim suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital, where he later died.
The Glendale Police Department identified and arrested the suspect, 26-year-old Justin Ramirez of Los Angeles, the following day at his workplace on the 1200 block of East Colorado Street. Ramirez faces felony hit-and-run charges as the investigation continues.
Authorities used witness accounts, video evidence, and Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology to locate the suspect and his vehicle. The investigation remains active, with police working alongside the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office to determine any additional charges related to the victim’s death.
If you have information about this incident, you are encouraged to contact Glendale police at 818-548-4840.
Start Your Claim: If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or lost a family member in a hit-and-run accident, it is important to understand your legal rights. Experienced Los Angeles County personal injury attorneys can help guide you through the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Happened in the Crash
The incident occurred just after 10 p.m. on East Colorado Street, a busy corridor in Glendale. The victim was walking when he was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene immediately after the collision. First responders found the man with critical injuries and rushed him to the hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds.
Police quickly launched an investigation, gathering witness statements and reviewing surveillance footage. ALPR technology played a key role in identifying the suspect’s vehicle, leading to the arrest of Justin Ramirez the next day.
Why This Location or Type of Crash Raises Serious Safety Concerns
East Colorado Street is a well-traveled area in Glendale with a mix of residential and commercial properties. Pedestrian safety is a significant concern due to traffic volume and vehicle speeds, especially during nighttime hours.
Hit-and-run crashes pose heightened risks because the fleeing driver avoids immediate accountability, delaying emergency response and complicating investigations. This incident underscores the need for increased traffic enforcement and pedestrian safety measures in the area.
Legal Questions After This Type of Accident
Liability and Criminal Charges
In hit-and-run cases resulting in death, the driver may face felony charges, including vehicular manslaughter and leaving the scene of an accident. The suspect’s criminal liability is determined by law enforcement and prosecutors based on evidence.
Civil Claims for Victims’ Families
Families of victims may pursue wrongful death claims to seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. Establishing fault and proving damages are critical components of these cases.
Compensation That May Be Available After a Serious or Fatal Crash
Victims or their families may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including economic damages like medical bills and lost wages, as well as non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and loss of companionship.
Insurance claims can be complex in hit-and-run cases, especially if the at-fault driver is uninsured or unidentified. Legal counsel can assist in navigating these challenges and exploring all available avenues for recovery.
How Families Can Protect Their Rights
After a fatal pedestrian crash, families should promptly document all medical and legal records related to the incident. Consulting with experienced wrongful death attorneys can help ensure that evidence is preserved and that the family’s rights are protected throughout the legal process.
It is also important to avoid discussing the case publicly or with insurance companies without legal advice, as statements could impact potential claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a loved one was killed in a hit-and-run?
Contact law enforcement immediately and seek legal counsel to understand your options for pursuing justice and compensation.
Can the driver be held responsible if they fled the scene?
Yes, fleeing the scene can result in additional criminal charges and may be relevant in civil claims.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in California?
The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in California is generally two years from the date of death.
What types of damages can families recover in a wrongful death case?
Families may recover economic damages like medical and funeral expenses, as well as non-economic damages such as loss of companionship and emotional distress.
If you or a family member has been affected by a serious pedestrian accident, consider reaching out to trusted Los Angeles County personal injury attorneys for a free case review. Experienced legal professionals can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Original source: KTLA










