$50,000 Reward Offered in Fatal Hit-and-Run Death of Chicago Cubs Fan in South L.A.

Los Angeles, May 7, 2026 — The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the driver responsible for a fatal hit-and-run that killed a 65-year-old Chicago man visiting Los Angeles for the Dodgers-Cubs series. Authorities described the case as a felony after the driver failed to stop and render aid following the collision.

Victim Identified: Jose “Joey” Melesio

Jose “Joey” Melesio, a resident of Chicago, was struck and killed by a vehicle traveling northbound on Figueroa Street near 75th Street in South Los Angeles on April 27, 2026. According to family members, Melesio was in Los Angeles to visit relatives and planned to attend the Dodgers-Cubs series at Dodger Stadium during his visit.

LAPD Detectives announced the reward during a news conference on Thursday, where they released surveillance footage of the crash. The video shows a compact, four-door sedan—described as possibly white, gray, silver, or light gray—striking Melesio as he walked across the street. The driver did not leisurely down or stop to assist the victim, who died at the scene.

“It looks like it could be white, gray, light gray, silver in color, but not too much of that,” said LAPD Detective Ryan Moreno, adding that investigators have not yet identified the driver in available footage.

Family Appeals for Information

Melesio’s family, including his cousin Oscar Flores, described him as a devoted relative and urged the driver to come forward. “Joey was such a great, loving man to all his nephews and nieces and to his cousins. We are pleading, please, por favor,” Flores said during the news conference.

In addition to the reward, LAPD is asking the public to contact authorities if they have information about the suspect vehicle or the driver. Auto body shops are also being encouraged to reach out if they recently repaired a small four-door sedan with front-end damage.

Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers or by calling the LAPD’s South Traffic Division at 323-421-2500. Detectives Ryan Moreno and Officer Antonio Hurd are leading the investigation.

Background and Context

Hit-and-run incidents remain a persistent issue in Los Angeles, with LAPD data showing a rise in such cases in recent years. The department has emphasized the importance of reporting suspicious vehicles, particularly those matching the description of the sedan involved in this case.

Melesio’s family has also launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and transport his body back to Chicago. The case has drawn attention from local media outlets, including ABC7 Los Angeles and NBC Los Angeles, which have covered the reward announcement and the ongoing investigation.

Key Details of the Investigation

• Date of Incident: April 27, 2026
• Location: Figueroa Street and 75th Street, South Los Angeles
• Suspect Vehicle: Small, four-door sedan (white, gray, silver, or light gray)
• Driver Description: Unknown (no footage of the driver available)
• Reward: $50,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction
• Contact: LAPD South Traffic Division (323-421-2500) or Crime Stoppers

FAQ: What You Need to Know

1. Who was Jose “Joey” Melesio?

Melesio was a 65-year-old Chicago resident visiting Los Angeles to see family and attend a Dodgers-Cubs game. He was described by relatives as a loving and devoted uncle and cousin.

2. What should I do if I have information about the hit-and-run?

Contact LAPD’s South Traffic Division at 323-421-2500 or submit a tip anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Auto body shops with relevant information are also encouraged to reach out.

3. Why is this case considered a felony?

Under California law, a hit-and-run is classified as a felony if it results in injury or death to another person. The driver’s failure to stop and render aid escalates the severity of the charge.

4. How can the public help?

The community is urged to share any information about suspicious vehicles, particularly small sedans with front-end damage. Surveillance footage or witness accounts could be critical to the investigation.

Conclusion: A Community’s Call for Justice

As the investigation into Melesio’s death continues, authorities are relying on the public’s cooperation to bring the responsible driver to justice. The $50,000 reward underscores the urgency of solving the case, while the family’s plea for information reflects the deep impact of this tragedy on their lives.

For updates on the case, follow LAPD’s official channels or local news outlets covering the story. If you have any information, act now—justice for Melesio depends on it.