LAPD Releases Video of Fatal Crash Involving Patrol Vehicle in Watts

WATTS, LOS ANGELES (KABC) — The Los Angeles Police Department has unveiled surveillance footage of a tragic accident that occurred in Watts, resulting in the death of a pedestrian.

The incident took place on December 8 at the intersection of Century Boulevard and McKinley Avenue. The released video, captured by the dashboard camera of the involved officer’s patrol vehicle, as well as nearby surveillance cameras, provides a comprehensive view of the events leading up to the fatal crash.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the pedestrian who lost his life was crossing the street outside the designated crosswalk at the time of the collision. Furthermore, it has been stated that the patrol vehicle’s emergency equipment was activated when the officer struck the pedestrian.

A pedestrian tragically lost his life after being struck by a Los Angeles police patrol car, leading to an immediate investigation.

Following the incident, the victim was promptly transported to a nearby hospital, where he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. The pedestrian has been identified as 26-year-old Luis Espinoza, a resident of Long Beach.

LAPD Chief Michel Moore expressed his concerns about the officer’s driving leading up to the collision in an official statement. While acknowledging that the investigation is still in its preliminary stages, Chief Moore confirmed the initiation of an Internal Affairs investigation. He also assured the public that additional information will be shared as it becomes available.

Unfortunately, further details regarding the specifics of the crash remain undisclosed at this time.