Pedestrian Killed in Downtown Los Angeles DUI Crash; Driver Arrested

A 37-year-old man died early Thursday morning after being struck by a vehicle in downtown Los Angeles. The driver, identified as 22-year-old Orlando Larios, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Details of the Crash

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) responded to the scene at approximately 2:10 a.m. At the intersection of Ninth Street and Towne Avenue [1]. The victim, later identified as Robert Francis by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, was walking south on Ninth Street when he was hit by a red Nissan Kicks [4].

According to police, Larios was driving eastbound in the westbound lanes of Ninth Street when the collision occurred [3]. Paramedics with the Los Angeles Fire Department pronounced Francis dead at the scene.

Investigation and Arrest

The LAPD’s Central Traffic Division investigated the incident and determined that Larios was under the influence of alcohol [1]. He was subsequently arrested and booked on suspicion of felony DUI [1]. Larios reportedly remained at the scene and called for help after the crash [1].

Ongoing Investigation

Anyone with information regarding the crash is encouraged to contact LAPD Investigator S. Ko at (213) 833-3713 or LAPD South Traffic Division [3]. Anonymous tips can be submitted through L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477) or lacrimestoppers.org.