Torrance, Los Angeles County – A tragic hit-and-run incident in Torrance has left a family mourning and authorities searching for the driver responsible.
Carlos Gonzalez, 38, was killed on the night of April 19 after being hit by two separate vehicles while trying to cross Pacific Coast Highway near Ocean Avenue on foot around 8:40 p.m.
According to officials, Carlos was first struck by a vehicle that immediately fled the scene, leaving him lying in the roadway. Moments later, a pickup truck ran over Carlos and dragged him underneath before finally coming to a stop.
Dashcam footage captured the terrifying chain of events, but so far, police have not released any details about the vehicle involved in the initial collision.
Leo Davis, a passerby who witnessed the aftermath, didn’t hesitate to act.
“It was the worst thing I’ve ever seen,” Davis recalled. “Just seeing someone left like that in the middle of the road—it broke my heart.”
Davis stopped his car and rushed to assist Carlos, attempting CPR and other life-saving actions until first responders arrived.
“He was trapped under the truck when I got there,” said Davis. “I managed to pull him out, checked his breathing, his chest for movement, and kept doing CPR until the police showed up.”
Despite his efforts, Carlos was pronounced dead at the scene.
“My brother didn’t die alone,” said Carla Gonzalez. “Leo stayed with him. That means so much to us.”
While the second driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities, the first driver has yet to be found. Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information to come forward.
Carlos’ loved ones have placed a roadside memorial near where the tragedy happened. His girlfriend, Brittaney, expressed her disbelief and sorrow.
“I know accidents happen,” she said, “but how can someone just drive away after something like that? His mother deserves justice.”
A GoFundMe has been launched to support the family with funeral costs: Help Honor Carlos’s Memory.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Torrance Police Department at 310-618-5557 and reference case number 250013850.
Source: KTLA5
How Can Family Members Claim Compensation in a Hit and Run Accident?
In a fatal hit-and-run case like the one involving Carlos Gonzalez, the family of the deceased may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. Carlos’ family may file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This type of civil claim allows surviving family members—typically a spouse, children, or parents—to seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided
- Loss of companionship, care, and affection
- Emotional pain and suffering
Even if the hit-and-run driver has not yet been identified, the family can begin preparing the case and may pursue legal action if the suspect is later found.
In Carlos Gonzalez’s case, his family should consult with experienced hit and run accident attorneys. Legal representation can help identify all available sources of compensation and ensure the proper claims are filed before deadlines expire.If you or a loved one suffered injuries from a driver that ran away, a Los Angeles car accident attorney from Megeredchian Law can help you obtain compensation. Call us at (866) 359-0807. We’re available 24/7 and offer empathic, like-family legal services. Hablamos Español.