33-Year-Old Female Pedestrian Struck & Killed by Vehicle 

Officers are in search of a hit-and-run suspect that hit and killed 33-year-old Elizabeth Ruiz of Gardena on Friday night. 

The incident took place on January 21st just after 11 p.m. on Vermont Avenue. 

Ruiz was reportedly crossing westbound as the vehicle was heading north. 

For reasons unknown, the vehicle, described as a black, medium-sized sedan, struck the woman and fled the scene. 

Paramedics found the woman lying on the ground and sadly pronounced her dead at the scene. 

Anyone with information on the suspect is urged to contact the LAPD at 323-421-2500. 

JT Legal Group sends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Elizabeth Ruiz. 

According to statistics, 20% of pedestrian fatalities include fleeing drivers. In addition, 68% of those killed in hit-and-run crashes are pedestrians and bicyclists. 

There was also a 26% increase in pedestrian deaths in California from 2014-2018 and California’s pedestrian fatality rate is about 25% higher than the national average. 

If your injuries are caused by the negligence of a third party you may be entitled to compensation. In the event of a death, families may be entitled to wrongful death benefits. 

It is also important to remember that in the state of California a person involved in a car accident who has sustained injuries has to file a claim within two years of the accident. 

If you or a loved one need legal help following an accident, contact JT Legal Group at (888) 529-3111.