Chatsworth, California – Authorities have identified the man killed in a hit-and-run collision in Chatsworth as 39-year-old Victor Cocolotta.
The incident was reported around 5:30 a.m. Wednesday near Lassen Street and Canoga Avenue, where Los Angeles police officers discovered Cocolotta lying in a driveway with multiple traumatic injuries. Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed his identity but did not disclose his place of residence. The official cause of death has been listed as “deferred” pending further investigation.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department, evidence gathered at the scene — along with surveillance video — indicated that Cocolotta was intentionally struck by a vehicle that then fled the area. Detectives noted that while his injuries were consistent with being hit by a car, he may have suffered additional injuries from an undetermined cause.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the LAPD Valley Bureau Homicide Division at 818-374-9550. Calls outside business hours can be directed to 877-527-3247. Anonymous tips may be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 800-222-8477 or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.
The investigation into the fatal hit-and-run remains ongoing.
Is It Possible to Claim Compensation When Someone Dies in a Hit-and-Run?
Yes. In California, the family of a victim killed in a hit-and-run may pursue compensation through a wrongful death attorneys claim. Even when the driver flees the scene, surviving family members can take legal action to recover damages for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.
Working with experienced hit and run accident attorneys is critical, since these cases often involve complex investigations. Attorneys can use police reports, surveillance footage, and witness testimony to help identify the responsible party and hold them accountable.
In addition, if the victim was a pedestrian, pedestrian accident attorneys can help navigate claims involving uninsured motorist coverage or the California Victim Compensation Board when the driver is never found. Families in Los Angeles may also seek guidance from a los angeles car accident attorney to ensure every possible avenue of recovery is pursued.
Compensation is not automatic, and strict deadlines apply under California’s statute of limitations. That’s why it’s important to consult with a law firm that specializes in wrongful death and hit-and-run cases as soon as possible.If your family has lost a loved one in a hit-and-run accident, contact Megeredchian Law today at (866) 359-0807 for a free consultation. Our attorneys will fight to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.